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25 Best Places to Visit in Massachusetts

Last Updated By VI on June 10, 2024

The Berkshires

Martha's vineyard.

• Complete List & Map

Music lovers come for the concerts by the Boston Symphony Orchestra, which resides at the Tanglewoood Music Center in Lenox during the summer. There is much more for art lovers, including the Norman Rockwell Museum, the Williamstown Theatre Festival, and MASS MoCA. Outdoor lovers can enjoy hiking, rafting, fishing, kayaking, and golfing and, when the snow covers the hills, it is time for skiing, snowshoeing, and snowboarding. More info

A small number of boutique shops dot the streets. Visitors can tour the connected Chappaquiddick Island and its lighthouse. The Martha’s Vineyard Playhouse offers weekly entertainment as does the popular summer film festival.

The Peabody Essex Museum displays a large collection of art and artifacts from around the world, including local art as well as a substantial Asian collection that features a restored Qing-era Chinese house. Other area attractions include Nathanial Hawthorne’s birthplace, Canobie Lake Park, and the Bakers Island Lighthouse.

There are several beaches to relax on and lighthouses to explore. Other attractions include the Nantucket Whaling Museum, the Coskata-Coatue Wildlife Refuge, and the Maria Mitchell Association. Several small islands are located nearby, including the Muskeget and Tuckernuck islands, which can be reached by boats that depart from Nantucket Harbor.

Provincetown

Pilgrim Memorial State Park is home to a boulder that is claimed to be the place where the pilgrims first touched land. A replica of the original Mayflower, called The Mayflower II, is typically moored at the park. Plimoth Plantation, a popular family destination, is a living history museum with a recreation of the original settlement, craft activities, and several live animals. Explore the beaches.

Rounding out the museum scene are the Beneski Museum of Natural History and the eclectic Mead Art Museum. Nearby Mount Norwottuck and Bare Mountain as well as Mount Holyoke Range State Park provide ample opportunities to explore the outdoors through hiking and other activities.

Salisbury Park features a 56-foot-high stone tower that looks like a castle and makes for an interesting visit. Indian Lake and the Wachusett Reservoir provide opportunities for fishing and boating during the warm months.

Hyannis Main Street is a charming all-American Main Street in Hyannis , Massachusetts, commonly referred to as the capital of Cape Cod for its prime geographic location on the Mid-Cape. The town is best known as the home of Barnstable Municipal Airport, which serves as a major transportation hub for most of the rest of Cape Cod and nearby destinations such as Martha's Vineyard. A wide array of quaint restaurants, cafes, and shops line the town's Main Street, ranging from beachfront favorites such as ice cream parlors and surf shops to fine dining establishments in a variety of international cuisine styles. The JFK Hyannis Museum explores the region's connection to United States President John F. Kennedy, while Bismore Memorial Park, located on adjacent Ocean Street, is home to an Art Shanties colony of artisan vendors. More Hyannis beaches

Newburyport

Another historical attraction in the city is the Cushing House Museum and Garden, which is a federal-style mansion with beautiful gardens. Outdoor activities include nearby Plum Island, which features a national wildlife refuge along with beaches, lighthouses, and opportunities for fishing and birdwatching. Other opportunities to spend time outdoors around Newburyport include Lake Attitash and Maudslay State Park.

Some of the historic places of worship include the Church of St. Mary the Great, Holy Sepulchre, Ely Cathedral, and All Saints’ Church. There are numerous museums located throughout Cambridge, including the Fitzwilliam Museum, which is an art museum, the Sedgwick Museum of Earth Science, the Museum of Archeology and Anthropology, and the Museum of Cambridge.

Many historical places are located in North End, including the Paul Revere House, Old North Church, and the Clough House, which is one of the oldest brick homes in Boston. The neighborhood’s many restaurants, shopping opportunities, and events attract visitors from near and far. Make sure to stop by Captain Jackson’s Historic Chocolate Shop to try some 18th-century chocolate.

The sites are marked with special ground markers explaining their significance and include sites such as the Bunker Hill Monument, Boston Common, the Paul Revere House, and 13 others. Other popular Boston attractions include the New England Aquarium , Fenway Park, the Boston Children’s Museum, and many more.

Race Point Beach

99 Marconi Site Road, Wellfleet, MA 02667, Phone: 508-255-3421

The U.S. Customshouse is also located in Barnstable and is a historic customs house that also houses a museum devoted to the Coast Guard. Several beaches are located in the area, including the South Cape Beach State Park, Follins Pond, Mashie and Wakeby Ponds, and Craigville Beach. Shawms-Crowell State Forest is a popular destination for overnight camping.

Halibut Point State Park

Gott Avenue, Rockport, MA 01966, Phone: 978-546-2997

Bridge of Flowers

22 Water Street, Shelburne Falls, MA 01370, Phone: 413-625-2523

Minute Man National Historical Park

174 Liberty Street, Concord , MA 01742, Phone: 978-369-6993

Charles River

Visitors can pack a picnic or eat at one of the many dining spots nearby. Kayaks, canoes, and stand-up paddleboards are available for visitors who would like to paddle the river. Guided tours of the river depart from several locations throughout the city and are a fun way to see the city and learn about the history of the area. More beaches near Boston

Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area

15 State Street, Boston, MA 02109, Phone: 617-223-8666

Good Harbor Beach

99 Thatcher Road, Glouchester , MA 01930, Phone: 978-281-9785

Aquinnah Cliffs

Aquinnah Cliffs , 65 State Road, Aquinnah, MA 02535, Phone: 508-645-2300

Cape Cod Rail Trail

Phone: 508-896-3491

Cape Cod National Seashore

More Ideas: Main Street Hyannis

• 1. The Berkshires
• 2. Cape Cod
• 3. Martha's Vineyard
• 5. Nantucket
• 6. Provincetown
• 7. Plymouth
• 9. Worcester
• 10. Hyannis
• 11. Newburyport
• 12. Cambridge
• 13. North End
• 15. Race Point Beach
• 16. Barnstable
• 17. Halibut Point State Park
• 18. Bridge of Flowers
• 19. Minute Man National Historical Park
• 20. Charles River
• 21. Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area
• 22. Good Harbor Beach
• 23. Aquinnah Cliffs
• 24. Cape Cod Rail Trail
• 25. Cape Cod National Seashore

More Getaways in Massachusetts:

Resources: VisitMA , State parks

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15 Best Places to Visit in Massachusetts

Written by Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated May 13, 2023

The sheer variety of experiences and tourist attractions in Massachusetts will astonish you. Boston itself combines the vibrancy of a modern university town and commercial city with treasured historic sights. Plymouth preserves - and recreates - the experience of New England's earliest settlers. Throughout the state, you can visit the homes and studios of some of America's most beloved writers and artists: Louisa May Alcott, Thoreau, Whistler, Longfellow, Melville, Norman Rockwell, and Daniel Chester French.

But the places to visit in Massachusetts are not all about culture and history. Whether you head for the ski trails of the rolling Berkshires in the west or the long white sands of Cape Cod and Martha's Vineyard , Massachusetts is about kicking back and having a good time, too. Plan your trip with our list of the best places to visit in Massachusetts.

2. Cape Cod

3. cambridge, 4. nantucket and martha's vineyard, 5. salem and cape ann, 7. lexington, 8. plymouth, 9. the southern berkshires, 10. mohawk trail and the northern berkshires, 11. worcester and old sturbridge village, 12. new bedford and fall river, 13. amherst and the pioneer valley, 15. newburyport and plum island, map of places to visit in massachusetts.

From the Brahmin bastion of Beacon Hill and the historic sights of the famed Freedom Trail , to the world-class art museums , "The Hub" has something for everyone. Whether your passion is fine art, ethnic neighborhoods, Americana, antiques, seafood, modern architecture, black history, music, the Revolution, technology, bookstores, boats, brownstones, boutiques, or baked beans, you'll find it here.

Tourists interested in history can start their tour of the Freedom Trail at Boston Common , where you can get self-guided tour information or sign up for a tour led by a costumed interpreter at the Visitor Center . Highlights of the tour are the State House , Old South Meeting House , Paul Revere House , Old North Church , and Bunker Hill Monument . Tourists can also explore areas like the North End , a walkable neighborhood that is home to many historic sites (and several excellent pastry shops).

Boston is a great city for families, offering plenty of attractions that interest all ages . The Waterfront district is a great place to start, home to the New England Aquarium and the Christopher Columbus Park . The famous Faneuil Hall Marketplace is only a five-minute walk from here, offering a huge range of dining options, including a food hall, as well as tons of shops and cart vendors. Families also love the Boston Museum of Science , home to a planetarium, IMAX, and many interactive exhibits.

Younger kids always adore the Boston Children's Museum , which is full of activities and playful learning, and any summer visit with kids needs to include a ride on the Swan Boats in the beautiful Boston Public Garden .

Reaching out into the Atlantic south of Boston, Cape Cod is the city's summer playground, with miles and miles of white-sand beaches and picturesque towns filled with tourist attractions and amusements.

For active travelers, the Cape offers sailing, fishing, kayaking, swimming, and miles of cycling and walking trails. Nature lovers find bird-filled salt marshes, and whales to watch in the nearby waters of Stellwagen Banks. The seafood is legendary, and in the fall, entire landscapes are red with cranberries.

A 40-mile stretch of Cape Cod's eastern coast is set aside as Cape Cod National Seashore , its perfect dune-backed beaches, woodlands of Atlantic white cedar, and bird nesting grounds networked by miles of hiking paths. At the outer tip of the cape is lively Provincetown , known for its inclusive atmosphere and thriving arts scene, including live drag shows during the summer. Tourists also venture to the far end of the cape to see the impressive dune system.

Although part of Boston's metropolitan area and connected by a single transit system, Cambridge is a separate city. And within it are two premier universities whose campuses feel like cities of their own. Harvard is the country's oldest institution of higher education, dating from 1636, only 16 years after the Pilgrims landed at Plymouth. The campus, which you can tour free with a lively student guide, is centered in Harvard Yard , right at Harvard Square .

Adjacent are the outstanding Harvard Art Museums , in a building designed by Renzo Piano, and farther on is the complex housing the equally prestigious Peabody Museum of Archeology and Ethnology; Mineralogical Museum; and the Botanical Museum, housing the famous collection of glass flowers.

The 150-acre Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) campus is an open-air art gallery, with sculptures by artists that include Pablo Picasso, Alexander Calder, Henry Moore, Jacques Lipchitz, and Auguste Rodin. Discover these with the help of a campus map, as you stroll among buildings designed by some of the greatest names in modern, postmodern, and contemporary architecture: Frank Gehry, Alvar Aalto, I. M. Pei, and Eero Saarinen, among others.

South of Cape Cod and easy to reach by ferries, Nantucket and Martha's Vineyard offer sandy beaches and the relaxed pace of island life. Nantucket is a 15-mile-long island only 30 miles south of Cape Cod. Between 1740 and 1830, more than 125 whaling ships called Nantucket their home port, making it the world center for the whaling industry.

You can discover more about whaling, whales, and the ships and seamen who hunted them, at the Nantucket Whaling Museum , filled with ship models, scrimshaw, whaling equipment, fascinating logbooks, and the skeleton of a 43-foot sperm whale. Elsewhere on the island are chic shops and restaurants, beaches, and miles of quiet lanes and walking trails.

One of the most relaxing places in Massachusetts is laid-back Martha's Vineyard , only five miles from Cape Cod, but light years away in atmosphere. Its gentle landscapes are covered in farms and six villages, each with its own year-round local life. Some of its miles of beaches are beneath scenic sand bluffs. The appealing town of Oak Bluffs preserves rows of little 19th-century "gingerbread" cottages, built when it was a Methodist Camp meeting site; don't miss the historic merry-go-round, the Flying Horses Carousel .

• Read More: Top Attractions & Things to Do in Nantucket

North of Boston, and less visited than Cape Cod, Cape Ann is known for the picturesque fishing harbor at Rockport , and the working port of Gloucester. But in-the-know travelers come here for its beautiful and uncrowded beaches, its thriving art colonies, and the idyllic little towns of antique-filled historic homes .

Salem was the hub of the China Trade, and once one of the major ports on the East Coast, and its streets today are still lined by stately homes built for sea captains and prosperous merchants. It has literary connections as the birthplace and home of Nathaniel Hawthorne, and the added historic appeal of the infamous Salem Witch Trials -a grim history that Salem has turned into several tourist attractions.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Salem and Cape Ann

Although Concord was of major importance in the struggle for independence - it was here that the "shot heard 'round the world" was fired at North Bridge on April 19, 1775 - it is as well-known for the transcendentalists . This remarkable group of writers and philosophers who lived and worked here included writers Ralph Waldo Emerson, Louisa May Alcott, and Henry David Thoreau, and they created some of their most famous works here.

You can visit the Alcott's Orchard House , preserved in its original state, where Louisa set her semi-autobiographical novel Little Women . Walden Pond , immortalized in Henry David Thoreau's writings, is part of a 411-acre nature preserve with a replica of his cabin.

For an overview of Concord's Revolutionary history and literary legacy visit the excellent Concord Museum , where you'll find Native American artifacts, Thoreau's snowshoes and furniture, Ralph Waldo Emerson's study, and the original lantern that signaled Paul Revere, along with collections of 17th- to 19th-century decorative arts and furniture.

Northwest of Boston is Lexington, where the first shots in the War of Independence took place on April 19, 1775. A Minuteman statue by sculptor Henry Hudson Kitson and a monument mark Battle Green, where colonial militia members (called the Minutemen for their ability to get ready for battle in a minute's notice) clashed with British troops.

Minutemen and their commander, Captain Parker, gathered in the 1710 Buckman Tavern before confronting the British, and its interior, preserved as it would have been in the 18th century, is complete with the original seven-foot-wide taproom fireplace. The old front door still contains British musket-ball holes.

Munroe Tavern , built in the early 1690s, became a field hospital for the wounded and contains period artifacts and furniture. The Hancock-Clarke House contains period furniture of the Clarke family and Reverend John Hancock, grandfather of the signer of the Declaration of Independence.

Pilgrims fleeing religious persecution in Britain arrived in Plymouth in 1620 on board the Mayflower , establishing the first permanent European settlement in the north. Plymouth Rock marks the place where the Pilgrims first landed.

Visit a re-creation of their village, peopled by costumed interpreters who play roles of actual Pilgrims at Plimoth Patuxet Museums (formerly known as Plimoth Plantation ), and learn about the life of Native Americans who welcomed them at Hobbamock's Homesite.

Pilgrim Hall Museum opened in 1824 to showcase Pilgrim artifacts; furniture; decorative arts; painting; and the remains of the Sparrow Hawk, a wooden ship that wrecked off Cape Cod in 1626. Highlights include Governor Bradford's bible, Myles Standish's sword, and the original cradle used by Peregrine White, who was born on the Mayflower. Sparrow House , built in 1640 and Plymouth's oldest surviving wooden house, shows how primitively the first settlers lived.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Plymouth, MA

The Berkshires, with their green hills, white churches, photogenic villages, and narrow country lanes, present the idyllic view of New England. Since the early 1800s, the southern communities of this region, which covers the entire area of western Massachusetts, have been a magnet for creative talent, and this cultural largess of music, dance, art, and literature is one of the region's major tourist attractions .

So are the miles of hiking trails, scenic waterfalls, and the ski areas of Butternut and Catamount , which combine to make the southern Berkshires one of the favorite places to visit in Massachusetts in the winter. Among the natural highlights are 80-foot Bish Bash Falls and the hike to the summit of Monument Mountain .

Stockbridge was home to the artist Norman Rockwell, and the Norman Rockwell Museum features his original works. Chesterwood was the summer home of Daniel Chester French, sculptor of the Seated Lincoln in Washington's Lincoln Memorial; his studio showcases his work, including working models.

In Pittsfield , you can tour Arrowhead , home of Moby Dick author Herman Melville . Lenox , best known for Tanglewood , the summer venue of the Boston Symphony Orchestra, was home to Pulitzer Prize winning author Edith Wharton, who built The Mount here in 1902 on a 40-acre estate, where you can tour her extraordinary Italianate gardens.

If you love gardens, be sure to also see the Berkshire Botanical Garden in Stockbridge. The Berkshire Museum in Pittsfield features works by American artists, an Egyptian mummy, and antiquities from Classical Greece and Rome. Naumkeag is the 44-room summer residence of a prosperous family, filled with antiques, art, and Chinese porcelain.

Tony Award-winning Williamstown Theater Festival and the many resources of Williams College make Williamstown a cultural hub in Western Massachusetts. The Clark Art Institute Museum features extensive collections of European and American painting and sculpture, highlights of which are the works of French Impressionists and American painters Winslow Homer and John Singer Sargent.

Hike the Maine-to-Georgia Appalachian Trail as it crosses the summit of Mt. Greylock , the state's highest point, or you can drive to the top for views of three states.

Williamstown is the start of the scenic driving route, the Mohawk Trail , which follows an old Native American trail across western Massachusetts. In North Adams, MASS MoCA is an arts center for sculpture, theater, dance, and film, housed in 27 restored historic buildings. Hancock Shaker Village features a working farm using Shaker methods and 20 original furnished buildings used by the Shaker community from 1783 to 1960, including the Round Stone Barn.

Worcester is an industrial city west of Boston, at the center of rolling rural countryside. Its prosperous history shows in the collections of the Worcester Art Museum , whose more than 35,000 pieces are highlighted by European and American works, Asian art, Greek and Roman sculpture, and contemporary art.

The most recent addition is the outstanding collections of medieval, Japanese, and other armor and artifacts from the now-closed Higgins Armory Museum . The indoor/outdoor EcoTarium complex features wildlife exhibits, a planetarium, and a tree-top walkway where you can learn about the New England environments and ecosystems.

Worcester was the major center of manufacturing diners between 1906 and the 1960s, turning out more than 600 of them that were transported across the country. You can honor this legacy by stopping at the well-preserved Miss Worcester Diner or Boulevard Diner .

Not far from Worcester is Old Sturbridge Village, a living history museum of more than 40 historic homes, farm buildings, and shops demonstrating New England crafts and daily life of the early 1800s. One of the state's most visited tourist attractions, Old Sturbridge Village appeals to all ages with its costumed interpreters demonstrating period crafts such as spinning, weaving, wool dyeing, pottery, tinwork, and blacksmithing, along with the daily tasks of farmers, millers, and homemakers.

In May, July, and September, the small town of Brimfield becomes the entire Northeast's Antiques Central, as dealers and collectors converge for several days of frenzied buying and selling at the Brimfield Antique Show and Flea Market .

South of Boston and Cape Cod, New Bedford was the heart of the world's whaling industry in the 19th century, with 80 percent of the nation's whale ships, and factories turning whale oil into candles and whale bone into corset frames and umbrellas. This legacy is remembered in the excellent Whaling Museum , with displays on the history of whaling, a large scrimshaw collection, a whaleboat, whale skeletons, and a whaling film.

Also worth seeing are the Seamen's Bethel featured in Herman Melville's Moby Dick , and the 1834 Rotch-Jones-Duff House with decorative arts, antique furniture, and extensive gardens. Take a self-guided walking tour of the waterfront, preserved as the New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park , and still an active and colorful fishing port .

Nearby Fall River also has a rich history, both as a textile center and a shipping port, but perhaps its most famous citizen was Lizzie Borden, whose trial for her alleged murder of her parents still fascinates visitors to the Fall River Historical Society museum. The Marine Museum houses one of the world's largest Titanic exhibitions and models of the Fall River Line, a fleet of steamships that carried wealthy passengers from New York and Boston to summer homes in Newport.

At Battleship Cove, you can tour New England's largest floating museum, which includes the battleship USS Massachusetts , PT torpedo boats 796 and 617, the USS Lionfish , a WWII submarine, and the USS Destroyer Joseph P Kennedy , which served in Korea, Vietnam, and the Cuban Missile Crisis.

Near the Connecticut River in central Massachusetts, Amherst is home to the University of Massachusetts, Amherst College, and Hampshire College, making it a center for arts and culture with museums, galleries, bookstores, and performance venues. The Emily Dickinson Museum includes the poet's home and that of her brother, where you'll find collections and exhibits relating to her life and writing.

In nearby Hadley, a stage coach, oxcart, wagon, broom-making equipment, and other old farming equipment is shown in a restored 1782 barn at the Hadley Farm Museum . Several historic homes and a museum at Historic Deerfield illustrate the colonial and Federal periods in the Pioneer Valley.

The Merrimack River powered some of the world's largest mills during the heyday of the textile industry, and in the Lowell area are a number of reminders of that era. The Middlesex Canal , built between 1793 and 1803, connected the Merrimack with the port of Boston, playing an important role in the Industrial Revolution that is explored at the Middlesex Canal Museum in Billerica.

The American Textile History Museum traces textile production from the 18th century to the mid-1900s with exhibits of hand-powered tools, machinery, fabrics, and garments.

Another facet of textile history is shown at the New England Quilt Museum , where you can admire the intricate handiwork in contemporary, traditional, and antique quilts. For a break from textiles, see works of James Abbott McNeill Whistler and other American artists at his birthplace, the Whistler House Museum of Art .

The major tourist attractions relating to Lowell's part in the Industrial Revolution are found at two open-air museums: the Lowell National Historic Park and the Lowell Heritage State Park . After seeing the videos, hop on the trolley for a tour, or in summer ride a boat along the canal system.

A guided tour of the Boott Cotton Mills Museum shows the weaving room where 88 looms pound away, powered by an ingenious system of shafts, belts, and pulleys all driven by the Merrimack River. Nearby, the former workers' boardinghouse concentrates on the living conditions and explores the stories of textile workers, often farm girls or immigrants. Lowell's textile mills were instrumental in the beginning of the American labor rights movement.

Newburyport has a rich history as an important seaport and shipbuilding center, and you can explore its seagoing past in the Custom House Maritime Museum . Get a look at the prosperity that shipbuilding brought to the city at the federal-style Cushing House Museum and its beautiful gardens. The house is filled with collections of furniture, silver, needlework and treasures brought back from exotic ports. The harbor is still active, and you can take whale-watching tours from its docks or enjoy a meal at one of the waterfront restaurants.

Nearby Plum Island is an 11-mile barrier island, with miles of beaches, dunes, and marshes protected by the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge . You can kayak in its marshes, walk its beaches, and watch for sea and shore birds from its boardwalks. For information on its resident and migratory birds, stop at the Massachusetts Audubon Society's Joppa Flats Education Center.

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Where to Go in Massachusetts: For even more information on what to see and do, refer to our pages on the Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Massachusetts . This will give you a complete overview of the major tourist sites around the state. When you are ready to fine tune your itinerary, these articles will lead you to the best beaches , hiking trails near Boston , and the best weekend getaways .

Exploring Nearby States : New England is a compact region, so it's easy to see the attractions of New Hampshire and explore historic Portsmouth , only a short trip from Boston. Northern New Hampshire is home to the White Mountains, where you'll find some of New England's best hiking trails and mountains for skiing . On the coast to the south is Rhode Island , with the spectacular mansions of Newport .

More on Massachusetts

52 Fun Things To Do & Places To Visit In Massachusetts

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: August 12, 2021  - Last updated: October 16, 2023

Massachusetts has a long and storied history.

It is one of the original colonies of America, making it among 13 states to have that honor, and was the landing grounds of the Pilgrims and the Mayflower.

Named after the Massachuset tribe, a name that literally translates to “large hill”, it would go on to be one of the sparks of the American Industrial Revolution thanks to its textile mills.

Known by the nickname “The Bay State”, Massachusetts is relatively small but packs a punch with its many historical, natural, coast, and art-related attractions.

As a commonwealth, it has played a huge role in the culture, commercial development, and scientific advancement of America.

It’s a many-faceted location, famous for everything from its roles in the temperance, abolitionist, and transcendentalist movements to its invention of sports like volleyball and basketball.

With all the Massachusetts attractions available, it’ll be hard to narrow them down to a few for your vacation!

To help you out, here are our picks for 52 fun things to do and places to visit in Massachusetts.

Table of Contents

1. Minute Man National Historical Park

Alexey Stiop / Shutterstock

The Minute Man National Historical Park is one of the most interesting places to see in the state of Massachusetts, especially for those interested in history.

Its designation is to mark the route that the British marched that would initiate the beginning of the American Revolutionary War.

Spanning 970 acres, it was established in 1959 and is cared for by the National Park Service.

Aside from just the 5 miles of Battle Road Trail, the Minute Man National Historical Park provides plenty of fascinating locations.

This includes Hartwell Tavern, which is an 18th-century restored tavern that occasionally showcases programs in living history.

There is also a monument at the site of Paul Revere’s capture, a restored colonial landscape, North Bridge where the British and the Colonies battled, and a set of ranger programs that provide education on the war through reenactments, demonstrations, and tours.

Address: 250 N Great Rd, Lincoln, MA 01773, United States

2. Museum of Fine Arts

Jay Yuan / Shutterstock

The Museum of Fine Arts is one of the very best and most extensive art museums on the planet.

It first opened in Copley Square in Boston, Massachusetts in 1876.

At the time, it only housed about 5,600 works.

Then, in 1909, it moved to a new location in the city, Huntington Avenue, and it has since grown to contain close to 500,000 individual pieces on display!

A popular location, more than one million people visit it every year.

At the Museum of Fine Arts, you’ll find works from all sorts of eras, locations, and genres, ranging from modern contemporary art all the way back to ancient Egyptian works.

Notable masterpieces by the likes of John Singleton Copley, Money, Picasso, and Rembrandt are on display.

The Museum of Fine Arts is always growing.

In 2010, a new wing called the Art of the Americas wing was opened to showcase the country’s art from ancient and modern times alike.

In 2013, galleries specifically for African, European, and Asian art opened, too.

If you’re an art-lover wondering what to do in Massachusetts, you’ll find your haven of fun in this museum!

Address: 465 Huntington Ave, Boston, MA 02115, United States

3. Boston Common

Travellaggio / Shutterstock

The Boston Common was created in 1634 and has enjoyed a storied history.

In 1768, it became a site for an encampment of the British Redcoats, who remained for eight years, and following that, the likes of George Washington, General Lafayette, and John Adams came here to celebrate the independence of America.

In the 1860s, it was the site of anti-slavery meetings and recruitment for the Civil War.

In World War I, victory gardens were planted, and in World War II, its iron fences were used as metal scraps.

Throughout the 20th century, it was used to promote commercial aviation by Charles Lindbergh, and civil rights and anti-Vietnam War rallies were held here, too.

With all of that history, the Boston Common was deemed important to be enhanced and preserved in 1970 by the Friends of the Public Garden.

It is now one of Massachusetts’ fun and free things to do.

Address: 139 Tremont St, Boston, MA 02111, United States

4. The Freedom Trail

Shanshan0312 / Shutterstock

The Freedom Trail of Boston, Massachusetts is a winding, three-mile trail that contains several of the country’s most crucial historical locations and sites ranging from cultural icons to churches and from museums to ships.

It is for this reason that it is widely considered one of the key places to visit in Massachusetts not to be missed.

A total of 16 monuments can be seen throughout the trail, which is easy to navigate thanks to its large marks of medallions and clear red bricks.

The Freedom Trail spans from the Navy Yard in Charlestown all the way to the Boston Common and showcases much of the city, state, and country’s wealth of history.

Address: Boston, MA, United States

5. Fenway Park

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Fenway Park is the home of the famous Boston Red Sox and has been an iconic location since its opening date in 1912.

For fun-loving sports and baseball fans, a trip to the renowned stadium is one of the main things to do in Massachusetts.

It is an important part of Boston city and has changed very little since it first welcomed spectators, adding even more to its historic value.

Fenway Park is the oldest major league baseball stadium in the world and is almost a legend at this point.

On a tour of the grounds, you’ll get to see Pesky’s Pole, the 37-foot-tall Green Monster over leftfield, and its huge seating area with a capacity of approximately 38,000.

Even if you’re not big into baseball, the old-fashioned charm of this Massachusetts icon and the fascinating historical knowledge bestowed on its tours makes it well worth a visit.

Address: 4 Jersey St, Boston, MA 02215, United States

6. Martha’s Vineyard

Michael Sean OLeary / Shutterstock

Martha’s Vineyard may be one of the most renowned and beautiful places to go in Massachusetts, so it’s no wonder that it’s also considered among the best.

It is an island in the Cape Cod area and is often simply called The Vineyard.

It is only accessible by ferry, but the trip is very much worth it.

It is also the 57th biggest island in America and is often given the nickname Hollywood East.

There are many different spots to explore and check out at Martha’s Vineyard, and almost all of them offer gorgeous views of the sunset.

Unspoiled wild areas are stunning, lighthouses are breathtaking, and the dining and shopping options will keep you occupied.

There are even weekly entertainment options!

One part of Martha’s Vineyard that you shouldn’t miss are its gingerbread houses in Oak Bluffs.

They are Victorian-style cottages carefully arranged together in a style that feels like they’re made from candy ala Hansel and Gretel.

There are a total of 300 houses of this kind in the area as well as a fascinating Cottage Museum to peruse.

Address: MA, United States

7. Norman Rockwell Museum

Brian Logan Photography / Shutterstock

The Norman Rockwell Museum , as its name suggests, is a museum attraction dedicated to showcasing a collection of art by Norman Rockwell.

It is one of the top locations to view these masterpieces, boasting the world’s most iconic and biggest collection of its kind.

With a whopping 998 original paintings and drawings by the artist, all of which are authentic, it’s a fantastic option among Massachusetts attractions for fans of his work.

The museum was opened in 1969 and has grown to showcase art from similar artists to Rockwell and his contemporaries.

It also provides information on his contributions to pop culture and the wider society, as well as his impact on social commentary.

You’ll also get to view Rockwell’s studio, which moved from its original location in Stockbridge, Massachusetts, where he worked for 25 years until he passed away.

If you’re lucky, you may get to catch one of the special events that the Norman Rockwell Museum hosts every now and then!

Address: 9 Glendale Rd, Stockbridge, MA 01262, United States

8. Cape Cod National Seashore

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Cape Cod National Seashore is an absolute must see and is famous as one of the most romantic things to do in all of America.

Each summer, visitors flock to Massachusetts to enjoy the glory and beauty of the 43,607-acre National Park, which hosts more than 500 miles of stunning beaches throughout the coast of Cape Cod.

The Cape Cod National Seashore has ensured the protection of the coast over the years, so you can explore it in its unspoiled, natural form.

Going further into the area, you’ll find numerous ways to spend your time, including dining options, conservation spots, fun nightlife options, and peaceful quiet areas.

It’s a great getaway to check out this weekend!

Address: 99 Marconi Site Road, Wellfleet, MA 02667, United States

9. The House of the Seven Gables

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The House of the Seven Gables is one whose name you may recognize from the similarly titled 1851 novel by Nathaniel Hawthorne.

That’s because that book is based on the actual house in question, which is known as the Turner-Ingersoll Mansion.

It sits at Salem Harbor in Massachusetts, right on the water, and was built in 1668.

The House of the Seven Gables has a unique construction that includes a dark and atmospheric facade, numerous pointed gables that may have contributed to its name, and several chimneys.

Tours of the house showcase the history of the mansion while providing information on the life and work of Hawthorne, the background of the town of Salem, and the chance to go through a secret passage.

There’s also a softer, kinder story to The House of the Seven Gables and how it became one of the most well-known local tourist attractions.

It was founded as a museum by preservationist and philanthropist Caroline Emmerton who purchased the mansion in 1908 and fully restored it to preserve it for generations to come and provide funding for immigrant settlement programs.

Address: 115 Derby St, Salem, MA 01970, United States

10. Faneuil Hall

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Faneuil Hall , built in 1742, was once a teeming marketplace on the waterfront for 18th-century traders.

It was a common meeting point, a site of many revolutionary protests and speeches, and an icon of Massachusetts history.

Now, it has been renovated and changed many times over, providing a modern glimpse into the past!

As it once was, Faneuil Hall continues to host a market on its lower floor that is perfect for exploration and shopping.

The highest floor of Faneuil Hall is also home to the Ancient and Honourable Artillery Museum, where you’ll get to learn about military history via exhibits of armor, weapons, and artifacts.

The hall also boasts an assembly area, which spans two stories in height and is full of murals of Boston historical moments and political figures’ busts.

As a recreational location, Faneuil Hall is one of the best free things to do in Massachusetts, and it’s a central hub for relaxing.

The fact that it’s steeped in history makes it even more interesting.

Don’t forget to get a good look at the Faneuil Hall weathervane, built when the building was first made in 1742.

It is a huge 38-pound grasshopper of copper that also doubles as a time capsule!

Address: 4 S Market St, Boston, MA 02109, United States

11. Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

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The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum of Massachusetts began as a location to house the art of Isabella Steward Gardner herself.

A three-floor space, it is home to over 2,500 different artifacts of all kinds, ranging from paintings to textiles and from manuscripts to sculptures, all collected from across the planet.

It is the story of Isabella that has intrigued so many.

After losing her one child to pneumonia and discovering she could no longer have children, Isabella secluded herself in her room and refused to leave, traumatized and depressed by the news.

When her husband finally coaxed her out and took on a trip through Europe, Isabella’s zest for life returned, and she fell in love with beautiful and strange works of art from all the fun locations she visited.

Eventually, Isabella had filled warehouses with all sorts of objects from Asia, Europe, and the Middle East, and she built Fenway Court in order to house them.

In 1903, she opened the home to the public, where it would eventually take the name of the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum.

Her life and times, however, remained very much a mystery, and she burned many private journals and letters before passing away.

Today, the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum is also famous for a different reason, too.

In 1990, two men pretending to be police officers successfully stole collectibles and art totaling over $500 million in value.

The theft is yet unsolved, remaining the biggest of its kind in history to go unanswered.

Address: 25 Evans Way, Boston, MA 02115, United States

12. Plimoth Plantation

Plimoth Plantation , or Plimoth Patuxet Museum, is a living museum that offers fascinating insight into Colonial life, making it one of the best vacation spots to visit .

It was established in 1947 by Henry Hornblower II, who grew up in Boston but had been interested in the history of Plymouth thanks to his summer vacations in the area.

The living museum is a recreation of 1627 Massachusetts and showcases the everyday lives of 17th-century Wampanoag and English peoples.

Hornblower performed many excavations in the area where the original colonies lived in Plymouth, and he decided to share his findings through the museum.

At first, Plimoth Plantation’s only things to see were a part of English cottages, but this has since grown.

Now, the living museum includes a replica of a Wampanoag village, a replica of the Mayflower, barns, a water-powered mill, and a whole colonial village!

As you walk through Plimoth Plantation, you’ll meet an array of period-dressed actors interacting with the museum’s buildings and living their daily lives as part of a 17th-century maritime and farming community.

Houses are surprisingly realistic with heritage livestock, kitchen gardens, and old-fashioned objects.

Address: 137 Warren Ave, Plymouth, MA 02360, United States

13. Old Sturbridge Village

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Old Sturbridge Village is one of the best places to visit in Massachusetts if you want to truly step back in history.

Here, you’ll get to set foot in a land that recreates the rural life of New Englanders from the 1790s to the 1830s.

It is the biggest outdoor history museum not just in Massachusetts, but in the entire Northeast.

At Old Sturbridge Village, you’ll get to view, enter, and explore more than 40 genuine buildings from the era across 200 acres of land.

This includes homes, trade shops, meetinghouses, a country store, a district school, a working farm, three water-powered mills, and a bank.

Actors in period costumes participate in the daily activities of people living in that era, performing acts like farming, blacksmithing, and working with real livestock.

Address: 1 Old Sturbridge Village Rd, Sturbridge, MA 01566, United States

14. Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary

Arturo de Frias Marques , CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

The Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary is a marine sanctuary in Massachusetts Bay famous as a location for fun whale-watching.

Spanning 842 square miles, it was once a fishing ground and is now a protected area offering whale-watching tours in a highly diverse environment.

There are many other marine animals that you’ll spot at Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary.

More than 50 of them are recognized and known humpbacks, but you’ll also see dolphins, seals, and more.

As far as things to do in Massachusetts go, a trip here is a wonderful way to experience wildlife in its truest form in a safe and mindful manner.

Address: 175 Edward Foster Rd, Scituate, MA 02066, United States

15. Peabody Essex Museum

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The Peabody Essex Museum was created in 1799 as a means of promoting art and culture on an international scale.

It celebrates the creativity of artists and cultures by stewarding, interpreting, collecting, and displaying a wide range of different artifacts and objects.

Without a doubt, it’s one of the best points of interest for art aficionados visiting Massachusetts.

The Peabody Essex Museum was also one of America’s first-ever museums to collect international cultural and artistic artifacts and items.

Its collections change now and then, hosting historic and contemporary works alike.

Genres and cultures range from Maritime to Oceanic, from Native American to Asian, and from American to African.

It also boasts historic American and Chinese houses and an archival library.

Address: 161 Essex St, Salem, MA 01970, United States

16. Hammond Castle Museum

The Hammond Castle Museum was once the home of the resourceful John Hayes Hammond Jr.

As a young boy, his wealthy father brought him to visit the laboratory of Thomas Edison himself, and Hammond was fascinated by him and hounded him with questions.

That would lead to Hammond being taken under Edison’s wing, and he would go on to become an inventor with the second most patents for inventions filed, right behind Edison.

Hammond, who would earn the title (that should technically belong to Nikola Tesla) “the father of remote control”, was passionate about history, European culture, and travel.

In 1926, he would begin construction on a home in New England, Massachusetts, a medieval-type castle with a drawbridge, War room, indoor pool, renaissance dining room, round library, and secret passages.

He named it Abbadia Mare and it looked out over the Atlantic Ocean, with a facade inspired by French chateaus and Gothic cathedrals.

Hammond would bring home parts of buildings (or ideas of their designs) from his travels, and they would form unique parts of his home, such as his courtyard garden room.

A wine merchant’s home, a meat market, and more would be collected.

He also filled the home with fun and eccentric items, like a church archway made from Mt. Vesusvius’ carved lava, a skull of a sailor who worked with Christopher Columbus, a nude statue of himself, and an eight-story-tall pipe organ in the Great Hall.

Today, the Hammond Castle Museum is a celebration of the man’s life and times, the unique architecture of the home, and the laboratory where he worked.

It is one of the most fascinating Massachusetts attractions to visit, with stunning artifacts, lovely views of the ocean, and picturesque gardens to explore.

Address: 80 Hesperus Ave, Gloucester, MA 01930, United States

17. Tanglewood

Tanglewood is a key destination for entertainment in Massachusetts.

Located in Lenox, it was once the Tappan family estate, given as a gift to the Boston Symphony and Serge Koussevitzky as thanks for their agreement to holding outdoor concerts for locals.

The festival’s largest audience was collected the following year in 1937, leading to what is now considered the first-ever Tanglewood concert.

Tanglewood remains a site for musical festivities annually, bringing in over 350,000 visitors each time it is hosted.

With many genres and performers putting on incredible shows and numerous events held throughout the year, it’s an absolute must do!

Address: 297 West St, Lenox, MA 01240, United States

18. Nantucket Whaling Museum

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The Nantucket Whaling Museum of Massachusetts is housed in a building that was once a candle factory in the 19th century, but the museum dates all the way back to 1929.

It was restored to glory in 2005 and serves as a center for education on the history of local whaling endeavors.

It has been an American Association of Museums-accredited institute since 2008 and has become one of the top local tourist attractions.

There are many fascinating attractions at the Nantucket Whaling Museum, including a sperm whale skeleton spanning 46 feet in length that hangs from the museum’s ceiling, a showing of Ric Burns’ film Nantucket, an 1881 restored tower clock, baskets from lightships, scrimshaw, paintings, portraits of seafarers, and decorative arts.

There is also a unique 1849 Fresnel lens taken from Sankaty Head Lighthouse, some twine that was made out at sea, a chest salvaged from a shipwreck, and a range of documents from the infamous whaleship Essex.

Address: 13 Broad St, Nantucket, MA 02554, United States

19. The Mapparium

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The Mapparium is a three-story feature of the Mary Baker Eddy Library, which is a Blue Star Museum.

In the early 1930s, it was the new headquarters of the Christian Science Publishing Society.

The society of the Christian Science Monitor commissioned Massachusetts architect Chester Lindsay Churchill to create the grand building, aiming to rival and one-up the similarly grand building of the New York Daily News.

The result was nothing short of magnificent, and the Mapparium was a part of it.

The globe is an inside-out creation of stained glass, bisected with a glass walkway.

It provides a way of looking at the Earth’s surface without the distortion you usually see on globes due to the spherical shape that shifts perspective.

The Mapparium does away with this, providing a completely accurate and very fun way of seeing the world!

At the time of its creation, the Mapparium was lit up with hundreds upon hundreds of lamps.

Today, those have been swapped with LEDs.

With the relative size of the continents and their positions being correct, you’ll get to truly see the huge expanse of Africa and the close proximity of Asia , Europe , and North America to the North Pole.

Do note that the political boundaries are a little out of date, though, as the Mapparium was finished in 1935!

Another fascinating feature of the Mapparium is its acoustics, created due to the perfect sphere that it is.

When you stand in the middle, your voice can be amplified and reflected back to you in 360-degree surround sound.

You can also clearly hear even the quietest whispers from the other end of the bridge in a whispering gallery effect!

Address: 200 Massachusetts Ave, Boston, MA 02115, United States

20. The Witch House of Salem

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The Witch House of Salem wasn’t always known by that name.

It was the home of Judge Jonathan Corwin, one of the judges who convicted “witches” during the 1692 and 1693 witchcraft trials of Salem.

His decisions were based on visions and dreams.

As a civic leader and local magistrate, he had been called to investigate the surging accusations of witchcraft in Salem and communities near it.

He served the Court of Oyer and Terminer.

The macabre, unfair history of the Salem witch trials is very much a part of Massachusetts’ cultural backdrop.

Corwin lived in the home that is now the Witch House of Salem for four decades, and the family would keep the house until the middle of the 19th century.

Eventually, the house was turned into the museum that it is now, focusing on the 17th century and the history of the horrific witchcraft trials.

Address: 310 Essex St, Salem, MA 01970, United States

21. Lizzie Borden House

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The Lizzie Borden House is one of the key things to see for ghost-hunters and fans of the strange and macabre.

Located in Massachusetts’ Fall River, it was once the home of Andrew and Abby Borden and their children and stepchildren, including Lizzie, their youngest.

When the couple was found dead, killed by a hatchet, Lizzie was the main suspect, though she was acquitted in the subsequent trials.

Now, the Lizzie Borden House is exactly what it says it is: a bed and breakfast and a publicly open museum.

Inside, you’ll find a recreation of the crime scene, some dismal and bizarre memorabilia recreated from the night, and the rooms of Lizzie and her parents.

The aforementioned rooms are available to lodge in, too, though you must beware – reports say the building, especially those rooms, is extremely haunted!

Address: 230 2nd St, Fall River, MA 02721, United States

22. Forest Hills Cemetery

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Forest Hills Cemetery is a Victorian-era graveyard located in Jamaica Plain, Boston, Massachusetts.

It is on the National Register of Historic Places.

Spanning 275 acres, it is arranged to surround a lovely lake and is a calming mix of natural and man-made features.

Graves are often decorated with sculptures and mausoleums tend to have interesting architectural designs.

Contemporary sculptures dot the grounds, adding more whimsical and fun elements to a normally somber environment.

One of the more interesting features of Forest Hills Cemetery is its miniature village, which was created in 2006 by Christopher Frost.

Each building is designed as a replica of a home of an individual buried in the cemetery.

This creates a very diverse set of mini buildings that is, itself, one of the fascinating places to visit in Massachusetts.

The cemetery is also the final resting ground of many interesting historical figures like Eugene O’Neill, Anne Sexton, and E.E. Cummings.

Address: 95 Forest Hills Ave, Jamaica Plain, MA 02130, United States

23. The Clark Art Institute

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The Clark Art Institute is both an art museum and a research location for higher education, and it is one of the only of its kind in the world.

It was created from a founding gift of art collected by Francine and Sterling Clark.

The Clark Art Institute contains a large collection of works from European and American sources.

Drawings, sculptures, photographs, paintings, decorative arts, prints, oil sketches, and even silver are on display, with Renaissance, Academic, French Impressionist, and many more genres.

For those interested in art, this is one of the most engaging things to do in Massachusetts.

Address: 225 South St, Williamstown, MA 01267, United States

24. Bridge of Flowers

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The Bridge of Flowers is one of the most unique and one-of-a-kind places to go in Massachusetts.

It was once owned by the Shelburne Falls & Colrain Street Railway, which closed in 1927.

After it closed, members of the community decided to change the trolley bridge into a lovely landmark for all to enjoy.

The railway’s remnants were then largely moved to what would become the Shelburne Falls Trolley Museum, which you can also visit near the bridge.

The Bridge of Flowers boasts a length of 400 feet and is covered in carefully planted flowers that bloom beautifully and constantly from April to October.

Over 500 kinds of flora, including flowers, shrubs, and vines, hug the walkway’s sides.

They are labeled with their names and make for a romantic walk!

Address: 22 Water St, Shelburne Falls, MA 01370, United States

25. Danvers State Hospital

John Phelan , CC BY 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

Danvers State Hospital was used as the inspiration for Batman’s Arkham Asylum and for the horror tales of H.P Lovecraft – which makes it especially fun to know that it is now a complex of condominiums!

Despite its current iteration, the hospital is still one of the chief Massachusetts attractions for fans of the unusual and obscure.

In 1878, Danvers State Hospital was opened as a hospital for mental health.

It was originally a kind place, providing care to more than 600 patients with a compassionate and caring view of mental health.

Unfortunately, by the 1930s, the hospital had become overcrowded, and its intimidating gothic appearance became more and more a reflection of the cruelty, inhumanity, and disrepair occurring within.

Even with expansions, the Danvers State Hospital was only ever meant to hold 1,500 people, but by the 1940s it had more than 2,000 of them.

Inhumane treatments began being used here.

Thankfully, the 1960s saw the introduction of community mental healthcare and alternative treatments that allowed the hospital to see less use.

By 1992, the hospital was shut down.

Though the condominium in its place today barely references this morbid part of Massachusetts’ history, the hospital cemetery remains onsite.

Address: 1101 Kirkbride Dr, Danvers, MA 01923, United States

26. Count Orlok’s Nightmare Gallery

Count Orlok’s Nightmare Gallery

Looking for some must-see cool places in Massachusetts?

Head on down to Salem and check out Count Orlok’s Nightmare Gallery , a movie monster museum!

Inside, you’ll find a spooky gallery that houses pieces of James Lurgio’s private collection of monstrous memorabilia and artifacts.

Throughout the creepy halls of Count Orlok’s Nightmare Gallery, you’ll see numerous creations of the figures of movie monsters, full-sized and made with materials like silicone, resin, and latex.

Approximately 50 characters, arranged chronologically, can be viewed, from Nosferatu to the monsters of Fright Night and from The Exorcist’s Linda Bliar to Alfred Hitchcock’s creations.

Address: 217 Essex St, Salem, MA 01970, United States

27. Ruins of Schoolmaster Hill

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Schoolmaster Hill was first the home of Ralph Waldo Emerson, then a public park created by Frederick Law Olmstead.

Its initial design included a terrace leading to a shelter, which then connected to vine-covered steps and a multi-use building.

The park structure eventually was redesigned again in order to provide a home for park facilities, and then it was turned into a golf clubhouse.

No matter its iteration, though, it always offered lovely views.

In the 1930s, the building was destroyed by a fire and left in ruins.

Approximately 60 years later, it was partially restored by the Boston Parks Department and the Franklin Park Coalition, and that is how it looks till now.

If you love exploring ruins and are wondering where to visit, the ruins of Schoolmaster Hill are among the best you’ll find in Massachusetts, complete with beautiful panoramas of the surrounding area.

Address: 1 Circuit Dr, Boston, MA, United States

28. The Museum of Russian Icons

The Museum of Russian Icons

Did you know that the world’s biggest collection of Russian icons outside of Russia is right in Massachusetts, right near the Central Park of Clinton?

It is here that the Museum of Russian Icons lives, containing over a thousand icons spanning six centuries of the Russian tradition of sacred paintings, as commonly used in their Orthodox religion.

The Museum of Russian Icons houses the collection of a local businessman and engineer named Gordon B. Lankton, who started the collection in the 1980s.

Houses within a mill building and a former police station building, both dating back centuries, it is the only American facility dedicated to the display of these unique icons.

The icons in question are paintings of religious images, often of scenes from the lives of the saints or of the Mother of God.

Some are covered with silver or gold, most are painted on wood, some have gold leaf decorations, and some use narrative panels to tell a story.

Almost all of them are anonymously painted and a fair few date back to the 10th century.

It’s a unique spot that you must add to your list of what to do!

Don’t forget to check out the Tea Room to sample Russian snacks, drinks, and chocolates.

Address: 203 Union St, Clinton, MA 01510, United States

29. New England Aquarium

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The New England Aquarium is situated on the waterfront of Boston, Massachusetts.

Spanning a whopping 75,000 square feet, it is a fun location boasting over 550 species of marine fauna totaling 20,000 individual animals.

It is also the biggest aquarium in the New England region, welcoming around 1.3 million guests annually.

At the New England Aquarium, you’ll find small crabs, sharks, turtles, seadragons, stingrays, eels, barracudas, and more.

Exhibits include the Caribbean reef, the Edge of the Sea touch tank, and the huge coral reef-filled Giant Ocean Tank that reaches four stories in height.

There is also an IMAX theater that features all sorts of nature-themed short films!

Address: 1 Central Wharf, Boston, MA 02110, United States

30. Adams National Historical Park

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The Adams National Historical Park was the home location of two American presidents and their descendants, continuing to serve this purpose until 1927.

The park was created in order to preserve the iconic homes of President John Adams and four generations of his family, with additional goals of fostering patriotism, representing the history of the family and the country, and educating the public.

President John Adams had always dreamed of living a simple life as a farmer, and after his stint as president, he created Peace Field, which was his farmstead.

You can view the farmstead here at Adams National Historical Park, as well as his childhood home.

Both of these sites do an amazing job displaying the complex life and mental struggles of the late president.

The park is undoubtedly one of the best things to see in the city of Massachusetts, especially for lovers of history.

Address: 133 Franklin St, Quincy, MA 02169, United States

31. Mount Greylock

Mount Greylock in Adams is one of the top places to visit in Massachusetts – mostly because it’s the highest point in the whole state at 3,491 feet!

Offering gorgeous views of the surrounding area, including five states that flank this one, you’ll have your breath taken away by the panoramic scenery.

Mount Greylock is also famously crowned by the Massachusetts War Memorial Tower, which hosts a beacon that is lit up every night and can be seen from a whopping 70 miles away.

A hotel also waits at the summit of Mount Greylock, made by the Civilian Conservation Corps.

Looking for some high-end fashion fun in Massachusetts?

Seek out Bodega , a carefully hidden location behind a secret door of an unassuming corner store.

From the outside, that corner store just looks like a generic convenience shop filled with non-perishables, household basics, and snacks.

But when you journey to the back, you’ll find an old Snapple machine that you’ll never guess hides one of the coolest things to do in Massachusetts.

Slide the machine and you’ll find out that it’s actually a secret door concealing the true nature of Bodega.

Bodega is filled with shelves that hold skate fashion and street fashion from high-end brands, and it’s a well-kept secret that is advertised by word of mouth!

Address: 6 Clearway St, Boston, MA 02115, United States

33. Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area

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The Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area is a selection of varying islands and a part of the Massachusetts mainland that is preserved by the National Park Service.

The harbor itself has a lengthy history, used as a shipping port in the Colonial era.

Renovation in the 20th century turned it into an ideal getaway, which is what it can be for you and your family this weekend!

Among the points of interest at the Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area are Harborwalk, an interactive walkway that brings you through numerous beaches, parks, and cafes, and a number of hiking trails that offer fishing and picnicking spots.

There is also Boston Light, America’s oldest lighthouse, within the recreational area’s space on Little Brewster Island.

Address: 191w Atlantic Ave, Boston, MA 02109, United States

34. Aquinnah Cliffs

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The Aquinnah Cliffs of Massachusetts, also known as the Gay Head Cliffs , are situated within Martha’s Vineyard on the island’s western side, in a Wampanoag reservation.

The cliffs of clay are millions of years old, created by glaciers.

The result is a mix of orange and red clay merging with sand that produces a stunning rainbow effect.

It’s pretty easy to get up-close to the Aquinnah Cliffs.

Following trails on Moshup Beach will get you right to them, and you can climb to their peak to view panoramas of the Elizabeth Islands and the Gay Head Light.

As one of the protected Massachusetts attractions, you’re advised to abide by any rules in place at the Aquinnah Cliffs!

The Wampanoag tribe that owns the land believes that the red clay of the cliffs is the result of legendary Wampanoag founder Moshup, who is said to have bashed whales against the cliffs to feed his people.

Address: 31 Aquinnah Cir, Aquinnah, MA 02535, United States

35. Bash Bish Falls

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Bash Bish Falls , located in the southwestern region of Massachusetts, is easily one of the most beautiful places to see in the US .

A gorgeous waterfall with a backdrop of legends and eerie tales of danger, it falls 80 feet into a shallow creek and pool.

The spot from the peak of the waterfall is one of the state’s most beautiful places, providing a stunning view that stretches all the way into Taconic State Park in New York.

Where does the name “Bash Bish Falls” come from?

Well, a macabre legend states that a Mohican woman named Bash-Bish was tied to a canoe and sent falling down the falls after she was accused of adultery, despite insisting on her innocence.

The legend also says that her daughter, White Swan, threw herself from the falls when she was unable to conceive a child.

Though many consider Bash Bish Falls a must-do, it’s also a location that should be approached with caution.

25 individuals have passed away due to jumping or falling from the peak of the falls to the shallow pool below.

Walkways are fitted with steel cables to try to keep that danger at bay, and many consider the beauty of the natural land to be worth the mild risk.

And it is, as long as you’re careful!

36. Massachusetts Institute of Technology Museum

The Massachusetts Institute of Technology Museum , located in Cambridge, is one of the state’s chief tourist attractions for those interested in technology.

It collects, preserves, and showcases many different items that are related to its titular university, providing education and historical tales of MIT and its role in modern development.

The Massachusetts Institute of Technology Museum is also home to a permanent collection of all sorts of machines made by Arthur Fanson.

Ganson was a former artist in residence at MIT and created several playful, whimsical, and personality-filled machines that perform all sorts of engaging, adorable, and intriguing tasks.

This includes machines that oil themselves, bounce non-stop, drag items, or perform strange and unusual tasks.

Address: 265 Massachusetts Ave, Building N51, Cambridge, MA 02139, United States

37. Brattle Book Shop

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The Brattle Book Shop is a fun location for bibliophiles who are visiting Massachusetts!

Situated in downtown Boston close to the Boston Common, it is tucked away between buildings of red brick and is an antiquarian bookshop.

Opened in 1825, it has been selling used books ever since and offers over 250,000 books, prints, postcards, and maps from different eras and genres.

The lowest two floors of the Brattle Book Shop are packed tightly with shelves of general use books.

The passageways between them are narrow, with step stools littered around for easy access to tall shelves.

The third floor boasts collectible and first-edition books that make for fascinating perusal.

And, of course, right outside the shop, you’ll find an open-air sale area filled with cheap books haphazardly filling bookshelves and racks!

Address: 9 West St, Boston, MA 02111, United States

38. Lexington Common National Historic Site

The Lexington Common National Historic Site , also known as the Battle Green, is a National Historic Landmark that is considered consecrated ground.

It is also one of America’s only locations where the US Flag can fly for 24 hours a day, as authorized by Congress.

It is here that, according to George Washington’s diary, the very first blood was shed in a 1775 battle against the British Regulars by the Minutemen, or 77 members of the Lexington militia.

A total of 10 Minutemen here were wounded, and eight lost their lives.

A number of monuments located throughout the Lexington Common National Historic Site make it both one of Massachusetts’ most scenic places and one of the key things to do in Massachusetts for history-lovers.

There is a bronze plaque here that marks the Belfry’s original location, placed by the Daughters of the American Revolution in 1910 as well as a relief of the Battle of Lexington.

The most famous monument at the Lexington Common National Historic Site is the Minuteman Statue Battle Relief, a huge obelisk that was placed in 1799.

It marks one end of the Minuteman line.

The other end is marked by a boulder that is inscribed with an inspiring and famous quote by Captain John Parker.

Address: 1625 Massachusetts Ave, Lexington, MA 02421, United States

39. Boston Museum of Science

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The Boston Museum of Science is one of the best institutions of its kind in Massachusetts, boasting more than 700 items in its permanent exhibits.

It is one of the world’s biggest centers of its kind and covers subjects such as mathematics, science, and technology through educational awareness programs, exhibits, and reports.

With an engaging hands-on and interactive approach, the Boston Museum of Science is a fantastic location for children but it’s also equally appealing to adults.

It has a planetarium that puts on daily shows, a butterfly garden to marvel at, and even a Dakota fossil which is dated at 65 million years old.

Address: 1 Museum Of Science Driveway, Boston, MA 02114, United States

40. Harvard Museum of Natural History

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The Harvard Museum of Natural History is a collection of three different institutions merged into one huge facility, namely the Mineralogical and Geological Museum, the Museum of Comparative Zoology, and the Harvard Herbaria.

If you’re a science and history buff looking for where to go in Massachusetts, this museum is a great bet.

Harvard University has more than 21 million different specimens under its research programs at any given time, and over 12,000 of those specimens can be viewed at the Harvard Museum of Natural History.

This includes a fully assembled skeleton of a dodo bird, more than 3,000 different glass flowers used in botany lessons in the 19th and 20th centuries, and even a collection of human skulls on mounts.

Address: 26 Oxford St, Cambridge, MA 02138, United States

41. Museum of Modern Renaissance

Museum of Modern Renaissance

The Museum of Modern Renaissance is situated in Massachusetts’ Somerville, on a humble residential street.

It was once a masonic lodge and has been turned into a “Temple of Art” as a labor of love by Russian artists Nicholas Shaplyko and Ekaterina Sorokina.

Since its 2002 makeover, the Museum of Modern Renaissance is a lovely and whimsical space designed to resemble an Incan ruin from the front.

The inside’s ceilings and walls are filled with paintings of mythological and fresco-like nature in a style that the artists refer to as Mystical Realism.

Tours of the Museum of Modern Renaissance are hard to come by and have to be booked in advance, so plan in advance if you want to add this to your list of places to visit in Massachusetts.

Address: 115 College Ave, Somerville, MA 02144, United States

42. Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum

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Pretty much everyone has heard of the Boston Tea Party, so why not learn even more about it at the Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum ?

This huge event in Massachusetts changed the course of American history.

The museum is all about reenacting that event so you can get up-close and personal with it and some full-scale 18th-century ship replicas!

The multi-sensory experience at the Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum includes interactive displays, historical interpreters, interesting artifacts, and a proper reenactment of events.

You’ll start at the Meeting House, where you’ll get to meet your host, Samuel Adams, and travel back to 1773.

Then, you’ll join a Son of Liberty and storm an 18th-century sailing vessel to join the destruction and overthrowing of tea into the same waters that all that tea was thrown into almost 250 years prior.

You’ll also get to fully explore the ship!

After that, the Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum will perform a reenactment and debate of the actions following the tea destruction.

You’ll then be able to see and learn about the Robinson Tea Chest, which is the only one that survived the original Boston Tea Party.

Next, you’ll watch an award-winning documentary about the famous Midnight Ride of Paul Revere that sparked the American Revolution.

Finally, you’ll head to Abigail’s Tea Room to try some of the teas thrown overboard and eat some treats!

For a fully immersive experience, this is one of the top things to do in Massachusetts for sure!

Address: 306 Congress St, Boston, MA 02210, United States

43. Boston Children’s Museum

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The Boston Children’s Museum is the world’s second-oldest children’s museum, so it’s naturally one of the places to go with your children in Massachusetts.

It’s also one of the world’s most influential museums of its kind.

It opened in 1913 and was founded by the Science Teacher’s Bureau in order to promote the teaching of science and the fun exchange of ideas.

As a museum for engagement, the Boston Children’s Museum focuses on offering hands-on interactivity that allows kids to learn through play, curiosity, and imagination.

Its many topics include health and fitness, science, the arts, culture, and even environmental awareness.

Multiple programs are also held to promote subjects and themes like visual arts, literacy, math, and health.

Among other things, the Boston Children’s Museum is also one of the very few in the world to have a special collection – and, in fact, it has multiple.

These collections include ones on Natural History, Dolls and Dollhouses, Americana, Native American, Global Culture, and Japanese themes.

More than 50,000 items are on display throughout this collection.

It’s no surprise that the museum is also one of the world’s biggest of its kind with all that it has to offer!

Address: 308 Congress St, Boston, MA 02210, United States

44. Dr. Seuss National Memorial Sculpture Garden

Dr. Seuss National Memorial Sculpture Garden

The Dr. Seuss National Memorial Sculpture Garden was created by Lark Grey Dimond-Cates, a sculptor who had been chosen to design a series of Dr. Seuss character sculptures and a likeness of the author himself.

The project, which began in 1996, soon grew into one of the most whimsical Massachusetts attractions!

But Dimond-Cates wasn’t just any sculptor.

She was the stepdaughter of Dr. Seuss, whose real name was Ted Geisel.

She made statues out of bronze and set them in a garden in the middle of a quadrangle of the Springfield Museums.

These sculptures include Yertle the Turtle, The Grinch, the Lorax, the Cat in the Hat, and Sam-I-Am, among others.

The garden opened in 2002 and the sculptures are scattered all around it, providing a lovely way to spend a day in Massachusetts.

The surrounding museums, which include a museum dedicated to Dr. Seuss, provide additional enjoyment for guests.

Address: 21 Edwards St, Springfield, MA 01103, United States

45. Boston’s Old Burying Grounds

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If you’re looking for one-of-a-kind, creepy, and morbid stuff to do, taking a trip through Boston’s Old Burying Grounds will certainly fill that desire.

The oldest cemeteries in the city use deathly imagery on their headstones, such as death’s heads, skulls, and hourglasses, to remind the living of how fleeting life can be.

The design choice behind these headstones in Boston’s Old Burying Grounds stems back to Puritan times when settlers of this nature arrived in Boston in the early 1600s.

In the early years of their settlement in the area in 1630, about 700 Puritans would call this Massachusetts region their home, but harsh living conditions would lead to many fatalities in those young times.

The Puritan community believed in mortally upright and ascetic worldviews and was focused on hard work, piety, and education.

They banned extravagant forms of religious expression and had harsh, strict views on who they believed would be able to get to heaven.

In order to work with these harsh rules, headstones would use simple messages and generic but morbid symbols.

Over time, these design details would become a little more festive, and eventually, this tradition of careful morbidity would be lost to more elaborate headstones and rhyming verses.

The oldest of Boston’s Old Burying Grounds maintains a lot of the initial morbidity.

You can explore the King’s Chapel Burying Ground , the Granary Burying Ground , and more locations to see the crypts and final resting places of famous figures and random individuals alike.

Address: Tremont St, Boston, MA 02108, United States

46. Singing Beach

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Singing Beach is an interesting option among tourist attractions in Massachusetts.

It is located on the North Shore and is a great spot for relaxation and novelty this weekend.

But why is it called “Singing Beach”?

Well, its sand creates squeaky, creaking noises akin to some form of mildly melodic singing as it is jostled and moved by visitors, especially when it’s dry.

The singing of the sand isn’t entirely understood, but experts believe that it is a result of shear.

Shear is a phenomenon when one sand grain rubs against a layer underneath it.

It’s an extremely delicate process, and any organic matter, dust, or other forms of pollution can reduce sand friction enough to completely kill that singing sound.

Singing sand must be round, be between a width of 0.1 mm and 0.5mm, exist at specific humidity, and contain silica – and Singing Beach has sand that checks those boxes!

Address: 119 Beach St, Manchester-by-the-Sea, MA 01944, United States

Looking for more thrill outside Massachusetts? Why not visit Boston and Salem? If you do plan the trip, here are some of the best things to do in Boston and some cool things to do in Salem, MA !

47. Medfield State Hospital

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Opened in 1892, Medfield State Hospital was an asylum for mentally ill patients for more than a century.

It was a self-sustaining community and institution and remained open all the way until 2003.

It stands out among Massachusetts’ Kirkbride asylums designed and built during the 1800s as it willfully avoided the imposing and intimidating atmosphere and went instead for a welcoming “Cottage Plan”.

The Medfield State Hospital was made up of 58 buildings made from brick throughout a big campus.

Its longevity and layout made it one of the best options for asylum treatment in its time.

It is also one of the few that, in this modern time, has not faced demolition or abandonment.

Instead, it has been open to the public during the day, letting curious visitors explore its grounds with no charge.

35 of the Medfield State Hospital’s original buildings remain now, and though entry is prohibited, the paths and grounds are all available as one of the free things to do in the state.

You may recognize some spots from films like Knives Out, Shutter Island, and The Box.

Medfield’s town government purchased the hospital at the end of 2014, and as of now, it’s unknown what plans they have for the historic building’s future.

Address: 1 Stonegate Dr, Medfield, MA 02052, United States

48. Cape Cod Rail Trail

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The Cape Cod Rail Trail , as its name suggests, follows the path of what was once a railway.

It is carefully paved and travels 22 miles through multiple different towns in Massachusetts’s southeastern area, specifically in the mid-Cape region from Wellfleet to Dennis.

If you’re looking for what to do that offers exercise while being easy to walk, this trail is a great bet.

The Cape Cod Rail Trail is very popular with joggers, walkers, hikers, horse riders, and cyclists, and it boasts a paved and unpaved section.

When snow falls, cross-country skiers may take to the trail, too.

No matter when you travel the trail, though, you’ll find a nice surrounding view, lots of stops on beaches, facilities, and rest locations, and even bike rental areas!

49. James P. Kelleher Rose Garden

Christine Riggle / flickr

The James P. Kelleher Rose Garden is one of the top hidden gem locations that you’ll find in Boston.

It is neatly tucked away behind and past several more popular parks in the city’s downtown area.

Dating back to 1932, the garden is situated in the Back Bay Fens and is carefully protected by a tall hedge of yew, close to Fenway Park.

The James P. Kelleher Rose Garden creates the feeling of a secret garden and boasts more than 1,500 roses.

It was commissioned in an English Style by the extremely infamous James Michael Curley, a former Mayor of Boston, and was designed by local landscape architect Arthur Shurcliff.

At the time of its opening, the James P. Kelleher Rose Garden actually won an award for excellence from the Massachusetts Horticultural Society, but that award didn’t reflect public opinion.

Many locals even considered it gaudy, especially against the more natural, wild, and understated design of the parks of Olmsted.

Eventually (and thankfully), however, people would come to like the garden, and it is now a proud part of the city of Boston!

It is open from the middle of April to the end of October.

Address: 73 Park Dr, Boston, MA 02215, United States

50. Edgar Allan Poe Square

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Great author and poet Edgar Allen Poe was born in 1809 in Massachusetts, but his home was sadly demolished along with its street several decades ago as part of an urban development project.

200 years after he was born, a small plaza right across the street from that was renamed Edgar Allan Poe Square.

Since its creation in 2009, Edgar Allan Poe Square has lived at Charles and Boylston streets’ intersection, been marked by a sign and a statue of Poe adorned with symbols from his poetry.

The square also houses a building twenty years older than it which is dedicated to the author.

If you’re a fan of the author, the square and its statue are among the things to see to add to your list.

Address: 176 Boylston St, Boston, MA 02116, United States

51. Ponyhenge

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Ponyhenge is a small part of a large pasture located in the Massachusetts town of Lincoln.

It is a true hidden gem located on private property but open to the public for visits and consists of a strange collection of plastic and metal ponies, rocking horses that are broken and damaged, and all sorts of other horse toys and items.

But how did Ponyhenge come to be?

In 2010, these equine curiosities began to arrive randomly and anonymously.

It all began with one single horse 15 miles out of Boston along Old Sudbury Road, all rusted and strange.

No one really knows for sure where it came from, but it spawned the arrival of more and more horses of all kinds – figures and figurines, hobby horses, rocking horses, and more.

Ponyhenge has only continued to grow, and no one seems to take any of them away.

Occasionally, the horses are arranged in rows, in circles, or in amusing configurations.

Other times, they’re scattered haphazardly about.

However you happen to stumble upon them, there’s no denying that this is one of the most bizarrely fascinating places to visit in Massachusetts.

Address: 47 Old Sudbury Rd, Lincoln, MA 01773, United States

52. Echo Bridge

Echo Bridge is a rather unique option among the things to do in Massachusetts.

Its construction finished in 1877 and it rests across Hemlock Gorge in Charles River, and, back when it was made, it was the country’s second-longest arch of masonry.

At the time, it was also an important part of the aqueduct of Newton Upper Falls and Needham.

Now, Echo Bridge doesn’t exactly bear these same honors, but it offers stunning views, architectural magnificence, and a rather interesting sound effect in its echo.

The anomaly of sound is an echo that provides a large number of reverberations.

A human voice may be reverberated up to 15 times, but something as sharp and loud as the shot of a gun may lead to a whopping 25 reverberations.

These amazing acoustics at Echo Bridge are a result of the sound waves bouncing between the arch of the bridge and the water beneath.

Some believe, however, that the arch is at the perfect angle to repeatedly direct sound back and forth within itself.

Whatever the case, it provides a four echo per second return and there’s a special platform built just for guests to test out the aural phenomenon during their Massachusetts trip!

Address: Newton, MA 02464, United States

Start Planning Your Trip To Massachusetts

Massachusetts is a beautiful commonwealth and state.

As one of six New England states and the most populous in that group, it is bustling with life, diversity, culture, and history.

No matter what sort of hotspots you’d like to visit during your vacation to Massachusetts, you’re sure to find many that tickle your fancy!

Happy travels.

22 Most Beautiful Places in Massachusetts  

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If you’re looking for one of the most beautiful spots in the US, look no further than Massachusetts . You’ll discover beautiful towns and natural landscapes that make this New England destination a favorite for all travelers.

There is a lot to see and do in Massachusetts that allows you to appreciate its beauty. From the scenic coastal destinations, historical harbors, and natural landmarks, the Bay State has something for everyone to enjoy.  Let’s take a look at the most beautiful places in Massachusetts that are a must-see when you visit.  

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When is the Best Time to Visit Massachusetts?

Well, there is beauty to be found year round in the Bay State, for sure! Winter getaways in Massachusetts are all that is cozy and warm, spring in places like Boston are a celebration of new growth and rejuvenation, but when it comes right down to it, summer and fall probably offer the best opportunity for viewing the most beautiful places in Massachusetts.

Most Beautiful Places in Massachusetts

1. boston harbor.

Boston is much too large to experience it all in one day, so I’ll let you in on a tip: the Boston Harbor is a must-see. You might’ve heard about the harbor as the famous site of the historic Boston Tea Party. Today, it offers many beautiful sights to enjoy while pondering the myth if the water still tastes like tea.

You can go for a leisure stroll on the Boston Harborwalk, where you’ll have scenic views of Massachusetts Bay and the endless ship masts docked in the harbor. Take a harbor cruise to view the magical skyline of Boston Harbour, undeniably one of the most beautiful places in MA. 

2. Boston Harbor Islands

Board one of the ferries from the Boston Harbor to visit the Boston Harbor Islands. It consists of 34 islands in total, with 13 of them designated as a state park. With more than a half-million visitors every year, there are many sights and activities to explore on each island.

Whether you’re checking out the historic Fort Warren on George’s Island, hiking the coastal trails on Moon Island, or checking out the iconic Grave’s Lighthouse, there’s something to do for everyone. You’ll be surrounded by beautiful Massachusetts scenery and have views of the Boston Skyline in the distance.

3. Boston Common

You will find lots of people enjoying Boston Common, an urban park in Downtown Boston, all year round. You’ll get to enjoy more than 50 acres of green space surrounded by towering office buildings and residences. The summertime is always a popular time to enjoy recreational activities, but the winter can be just as charming.

This beautiful Boston park was built in 1964, making it the oldest public park in the US  and one of the most beautiful places in MA. There are sporting facilities like a baseball field, tennis court, and ice-skating rink. It’s an excellent place for people-watching, picnics, or catching an event like Shakespeare in the Park. The park is the starting point of the Freedom Trail .

4. Cape Cod National Seashore

Cape Cod is a favorite vacation destination spot for New Englanders, thanks to its picturesque scenery. It’s a large peninsula extending into the Atlantic Ocean with several towns, but a national seashore area is a place you don’t want to miss.

Cape Cod National Seashore’s beauty will surely take your breath away. Of all the most beautiful places in MA, you will get to experience the best of its beaches, with 40 miles of shoreline. Visitors can enjoy swimming, surfing, kayaking, and more.

Go for a scenic Massachusetts hike along the sandy beach trails or boardwalk swamp trails. You’ll encounter landmarks like the Nauset Lighthouse and Highland Lighthouse. (Check out more of the best lighthouses in Massachusetts ).

5. Martha’s Vineyard

Martha’s Vineyard is no longer Massachusetts’s best-kept secret because it’s now developed into a popular vacation spot. But even with the large summer crowds, the island’s beauty still captivates visitors to make it a go-to destination.

You can take a short ferry ride from Cape Cod to reach the island. It has everything from charming colonial-style towns like Oak Bluffs to some of the most picturesque MA beaches , making it truly one of the rarest and most beautiful places in MA.

One of the best ways to experience the island is by renting bikes and exploring the island. Be sure to stop by the local wineries for wine tasting while visiting this Massachusetts gem.

6. Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

Boston has several world-class museums, but none quite as beautiful as the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum . The stunning courtyard is a trendy place for photography.

It’s hard to say which is more impressive – the Venetian mansion-style architecture or the famous paintings hanging inside it. The art collection includes works from Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Botticelli. You’ll see masterpieces from American, European, and Asian art.

You can spend a few hours wandering the multiple floors of this beautiful museum. The courtyard features decorative plants and perfect lighting that makes it appear like a work of art in itself. Historically and aesthetically, it is few among the most beautiful places in MA for art-lovers. 

7. Heritage Museum and Gardens

  With over 100 acres of manicured garden landscape, you won’t find another garden as big as the Heritage Museum and Gardens in the region. You’ll immediately feel the tranquil atmosphere as you wander around the beautiful gardens .

The Heritage Museum and Gardens, located in Sandwich, feature many exotic flowers, trees, bushes, and more. Every detail of the garden is designed, including decorative features like waterfalls, a lake, windmills, and more.

The most popular times to visit these scenic Massachusetts gardens are during the spring and winter. The spring features the flora at full bloom, where the entire space is filled with colors and a pleasant aroma. The Gardens Aglow event is during the winter, where the site features an incredible Christmas light display.

8. Plimoth Plantation

Take a walk through the past to see where the pilgrims first landed when arriving in the new land. Plimoth Plantation is an impressive attraction that recreates the Native and Pilgrim villages as they were during the 17th Century.

Plimoth Plantation is a living museum experience that immerses you into the pilgrims’ lifestyle. You’ll see colonists dressed in authentic costumes that talk about their lives in the new world. You can even peek inside the traditional homes to see how they lived. If you are excited to experience pilgrim villages, Plimoth Plantation is undoubtedly one the must-visit spots in Mass.

Don’t forget to check out the restored Mayflower ship located just a few minutes away, also in the town of Plymouth .

9. The Berkshires

Travel to scenic Western Massachusetts to appreciate the Bay State’s natural beauty. The Berkshires describe the region characterized by forest-covered mountains and is a favorite outdoor recreation area.  For nature-lovers, it is one of the most beautiful places in MA and in the USA.

Hiking is one of the favorite activities in the Berkshires . Step out into the scenic outdoors to discover the best viewpoints and trails. Hike to the Mount Greylock summit for the best view overlooking the landscape – it’s the highest point.

Autumn is a beautiful time to visit; the Berkshires is one of the best places in MA to see the colorful fall foliage . It’s also great for a scenic drive in between towns. 

10. Bridge of Flowers

Guaranteed, you’ve never seen a bridge as unique as the Bridge of Flowers . The name accurately describes this small yet beautiful attraction in Massachusetts. The bridge is decorated with a colorful array of flowers seasonally, so it’s worth a visit anytime of year. For plant lovers and gardeners, this nature’s paradise will definitely appeal to you as one of the most beautiful destinations in Massachusetts.

Bridge of Flowers is a former trolley bridge built-in 1908 that is now a pedestrian bridge extending between Shelburne and Buckland. It is decorated with various flowers, such as bulbs, perennials, and dahlias. 

You can visit the bridge to see the flower decorations from April to October. It’s a popular photography spot or great for simply enjoying views of Deerfield River.

11. Nantucket

Massachusetts has some of the wealthiest communities in New England. You’ll get a glimpse of it when you visit Nantucket. It’s an island about 30 miles south of Cape Cod that’s a beautiful place for a scenic day trip. It’s also a great spot for a serene, restful retreat in winter !

This beautiful Massachusetts island feels secluded since it’s only accessible by ferry, but it has lots of sights and things to do. Visit the quaint town of Nantucket and explore the boutique shops lining the cobblestone streets or visit Brant Point Lighthouse, one of the three lighthouses on the island.

Whaling has a long history in Nantucket. You can take a whale-watching cruise or visit the Whaling Museum.

12. Rockport

Chances are, you’ve probably already seen Rockport in one of your favorite movies. This beautiful Massachusetts town is a popular film shoot site, and now you can say you’ve visited it! 

The small town of Rockport is the perfect escape from nearby Boston. It’s a scenic coastal town that keeps visitors coming back. Not only is it situated right on the shore surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, but you’ll see many vintage fisherman shacks that now house restaurants and shops; lots of small town MA charm here!

Rockport is a popular art destination with many galleries and you can go on a gallery crawl to see works from local artists depicting the town’s beauty.

13. Harvard University Campus

Harvard University is perhaps the most prestigious university in the world, but it’s also absolute architectural eye candy. Located in Cambridge, the campus is one of the most iconic places you’ll see in Massachusetts. It’s full of historic buildings, and you’ll feel smarter just by walking around the campus.

Harvard University was established in 1636, making it the oldest university in the US. Although it is a private university, visitors are welcomed to walk the campus. Harvard Square is a central hub of the campus that features statues and historical landmarks. Some of the most notable sites include the John Harvard statue, Massachusetts Hall, Widener Library, and Memorial Church.

14. Provincetown Dunes

You’ll feel like you’re in a new world as you begin to hike the Provincetown Dunes. The dunes occupy a large area of the Cape Cod National Seashore, but the landscape change appears otherworldly.

The coastal Provincetown dunes offer one of the best views of the Atlantic Ocean. It’s easy to forget that you’re in Massachusetts, thanks to the ethereal scenery.

The entire region is covered with rolling dunes so prepare to get very sandy. There are hiking trails that wind around and above the dunes. Plus, you’re in Provincetown, which is full of fun things to do and yummy places to eat!

15. Aquinnah Cliffs

The Aquinnah Cliffs are a must-visit while on Martha’s Vineyard because the pictures don’t capture how beautiful it is. Formerly known as Gay Head Cliffs, it’s one of the most popular destinations and most beautiful places in MA.

The Aquinnah Cliffs are made from red clay, giving them a spectacular color. Visitors can climb to the top of the cliffs to enjoy one of the best views Massachusetts offers, with sweeping vistas of the Atlantic Ocean and nearby landmarks like the Gay Head Lighthouse.

If you can, join the crowds to watch an incredible MA sunset from atop the cliffs.

16. Parker River National Wildlife Refuge

Travel to Plum Island to discover the well-preserved landscape of the lovely Parker River National Wildlife Refuge. This nature area was designated for migratory birds, but the conservation efforts make it one of the most beautiful places in Massachusetts to check out.

Parker River National Wildlife Refuge covers most of the small island. The scenic coastal landscape has the cleanest beaches and picturesque dunes. It’s an excellent destination for birdwatching, swimming, hiking, and fishing. 

There is a visitor center to learn more about the best places to see birds and hiking trails to scenic viewpoints.

17. Bartholomew’s Cobble

If you’re a fan of the outdoors, you’ll genuinely enjoy nature walks at Bartholomew’s Cobble, near Sheffield, MA. Designated as a natural landmark, you have a chance to see hundreds of species of plants and birds.

Bartholomew’s Cobble is known for its flora diversity. Several miles of hiking trails take you around this forested region of Massachusetts. It’s a scenic hike that you’ll surely enjoy as you trek alongside the Housatonic River.

Fall is one of the best times to visit this scenic area of Massachusetts, where the region showcases the vibrant colors of the fall foliage.

18. Bash Bish Falls

New England has plenty of beautiful waterfalls to check out, but Bash Bish Falls consistently ranks as one of the most stunning. It’s tucked away in the forest, so you get to hike the trails before stumbling upon this incredible sight.

Bash Bish Falls is located on the Massachusetts-New York border. It is the tallest waterfall in MA, with a nearly 60-ft drop. Although swimming isn’t permitted, the spectacular scenery at this Massachusetts waterfall is more than enough to appreciate.

During the warmer seasons, you can have a picnic near the waterfalls. Enjoy your meal amidst the soothing sounds of the falls trickling down the large rocks.

19. Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary

One of the most beautiful places in MA to see nature’s largest mammal is at the Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary . It’s a popular whale-watching site that will leave you speechless once you get to see it in person.

Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary is a large preserved marine area of Massachusetts Bay. It’s a hotspot for spotting whales, dolphins, and other species.

Take a scenic boat tour into the bay and keep your camera ready to snap photos of these majestic marine creatures.

20. Halibut Point State Park

After you’ve explored the scenic town of Rockport, stop by the Halibut Point State Park located just outside of town. It has 67 acres worth of hiking trails and landmarks in the beautiful landscape.

Halibut Point State Park is unique for the massive rocks lining the shore. The hiking trails extend over the rocks. You’ll reach elevations for one of the most scenic overlooks as it definitely scores top among the most beautiful places in MA. You can see the nearby beaches, Isles of Shoals, and even Mount Agamenticus in Maine on clear days.

21. Wellfleet Kettle Ponds

 One of the most beautiful “hidden” places in Massachusetts is the Cape Cod open secret of the beautiful freshwater oases that have been left behind from melted glacial deposits thousands of years ago, known as the Wellfleet Kettle Ponds . While access for non residents can be tricky to these gorgeous deep blue ponds as they all do require a Wellfleet Residents sticker to park, you could probably find yourself a friend in Wellfleet to take you there for an in-person glimpse of this gorgeous natural scenery in Massachusetts.

22. Benson’s Pond Cranberry Bog

Of course, you can’t talk about the most beautiful places in Massachusetts without mentioning the vibrant, crimson-filled cranberry bogs that have been such a significant part of Massachusetts’ state agricultural history and culture for such a long time!

Not only can you visit cranberry bogs in Massachusetts , but you can even participate in the cranberry harvest at places like Benson’s Pond , where you can strap on a pair of chest waders and get right in the vivid red cranberry bog yourself. This would make for a very cool photo to add to your Insta!

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Top 16 things to do in Massachusetts from whale watching to a Red Sox game

Jun 27, 2022 • 9 min read

Occupying a sprawling former factory complex in the Berkshires town of North Adams, MASS MoCA is one of the world’s most exciting places to view contemporary art © Barry Winiker / Getty Images

Whether you want to gain a new perspective on American history, explore unusual art venues or eat your weight in cannolis, Massachusetts is ready for you. 

Native Bay Staters and visitors from afar have little trouble filling their days with unique and exciting things to do all year long. For history buffs, art lovers, outdoor-adventure seekers and everyone else, here are the very best things to do all over Massachusetts.

Dump tea into Boston Harbor

The renowned Boston Tea Party helped pave the way to the American Revolutionary War – and nothing showcases this history quite like the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum . This in-person, interactive experience allows visitors to adopt a historic persona, engage in heated debates and shout “Huzzah!” as they join the Sons of Liberty in storming ships and hoisting crates of tea overboard. 

See amazing contemporary art at MASS MoCA

Set in 26 buildings on 19 acres, this extraordinary contemporary-art museum occupies the former site of the Sprague Electric Company. The sprawling post-industrial campus comes complete with brick facades, football field-sized rooms, open-air courtyards, hidden passageways, covered viaducts and other nooks and crannies. 

And every one of them is filled with art – bold, bizarre, eyebrow-raising, head-scratching, mind-boggling art, all frequently refreshed via rotating exhibitions. For a brilliant immersive experience, walk through Sol LeWitt’s Wall Drawing Retrospective , which occupies nearly one acre of wall space all by itself.

Treat yourself to cannoli in Boston’s North End

The North End is a little slice of the old country in the heart of  Boston . Dining out in the North End is a delightful and delicious experience – only most restaurants don’t serve dessert. 

That’s because they can’t top the sweets on offer at local bakeries. Light and crispy on the outside, sweet and creamy on the inside, cannolis are sheer perfection in a pastry – and a North End specialty. 

Where’s the best place to go for cannoli in the North End? The famous Italian bakeries are on Hanover St, though  Bova’s Bakery on Salem St serves equally scrumptious cannolis without the mile-long lines.

The best time to visit Massachusetts

Watch for whales at Stellwagen Bank

There’s nothing like the thrill of seeing a majestic whale launch its massive body out of the water or flip its tail as if saying hello. These types of sightings are (almost) guaranteed on a cruise to the offshore Stellwagen Bank , one of the world’s richest feeding grounds for marine mammals and birds.

Cruises depart from Gloucester, Plymouth, Provincetown and Boston. Common sightings include humpback, minke and fin whales, as well as dolphins, sharks and seals.

Ogle old-master paintings at the Gardner Museum

Isabella Stewart Gardner was a 19th-century socialite, a patron of the arts and a lover of the Boston Red Sox. Today, the unrivaled collection of art she amazzed on display at  a Venetian-style palazzo just off the Back Bay Fens. 

From rare books to ancient Roman objects to Italian Renaissance paintings, over 7500 pieces of art dazzle visitors. Watching over it all is Gardner herself,  via a captivating portrait by John Singer Sargent  hanging in the Gothic Room. If you close your eyes, it’s easy to imagine the salons and soirées that took place here back in the day. 

The interior courtyard – bursting with seasonal blooms, ancient Roman sculptures and mosaics – is worth the price of admission ($20) in itself. The museum was also the site of one of the world’s most brazen – and still unsolved – art heists, in 1990 : look out for the empty frames that still hang in the missing paintings’ place.

The best state parks in Massachusetts  

Summit the cliffs at Quincy Quarries

This former granite quarry is now a sort of unofficial, experiential outdoor art studio and rock-climbing center. Vibrant paintings cover every cliff – personal tags, political rants and murals wacky and whimsical, their colors exploding off the dull gray granite facades. 

The place has an offbeat, unkempt beauty that may not appeal to everyone. Rock climbers in particular have mixed feelings about the graffiti (which makes the granite extra slick), though the quarry is still a popular spot to rope up, with dozens of climbing routes around the grounds. An epic view of the Boston skyline awaits if you make it to the summit.

Catch a Red Sox game at Fenway Park

The oldest ballpark in Major League Baseball, Fenway has been the scene of countless triumphs and tragedies since 1912. It’s the home of the Boston Red Sox, a team that inspires unrivaled passion in their fan base. The scene isn’t always pretty – but it’s pure, unfiltered Boston. If you can’t get tickets to a game, the on-site Bleacher Bar (with a limited view onto center field) is the next best thing.

Eat fried clams on the North Shore

The fried clam is one of the state’s iconic foods, with crispy breading on the outside, tender bivalve on the inside – and tasty all around. 

The North Shore is the place to sample this delicacy: it was invented here, and the clams harvested in Essex and Ipswich are consistently sweet and succulent. Sample them at Woodman’s of Essex (the original), at JT Farnham’s overlooking the salt marsh, or at the Clam Box , a restaurant that actually looks like...a clam box. 

The best beaches in Massachusetts 

Discover the street art in Salem

The Point (or El Punto) is a predominately Latinx neighborhood only a few blocks from Salem’s historic center. In recent years, the streets have transformed into a unique Salem attraction: the Punto Urban Museum , an open-air art exhibition with more than 75 murals on the neighborhood’s brick walls, painted by artists from around the world.

The paintings immortalize Latinx heroes, elevate cultural themes and comment on socioeconomic inequities. And they also enrich the neighborhood with their color, texture, detail and vibrancy.

Best things to do in Salem  

Learn about Indigenous culture at the Plimoth Patuxet Museums

The town of Plymouth on the South Shore is typically known as the site of an early English settlement – but the native Wampanoag people have inhabited the region for over 12,000 years, with the Patuxet resident in the 17th century. The Plimoth Patuxet Museums explore both these histories. 

At Historic Patuxet, you can visit a wetu (Wampanoag house), study the craftsmanship of a dugout canoe and observe how food was grown and cooked before the English colonists arrived.

Cycle through the dunes along Cape Cod National Seashore

Stretching along the outer edge of the Outer Cape,  Cape Cod National Seashore is 40 miles of utter paradise. Pristine beaches, sand dunes, pine forests and kettle ponds with a few lighthouses for effect make any trip here one you’ll remember forever. 

It’s impossible to see it all in one visit, but the Province Lands bike trail offers an excellent sampler along a surprisingly rigorous 5.45-mile loop – one of  Cape Cod ’s top activities. On a hot day, end your ride at wild and wonderful Race Point Beach to cool off in the waves.

Best free things to do in Massachusetts  

Spy on seals in Chatham

It’s not unusual to glimpse a sweet, whiskered face peeking out of the waters near Cape Cod, which is home to some 50,000 gray and harbor seals. If you want a guaranteed sighting, take a boat trip out to Monomoy Island , where you’ll see the creatures bobbing in the water or lounging on the beach. 

During mating season (especially September and October), the sheer number of bodies astounds, with the long, narrow beach packed with hundreds of seals piled on top of each other like anchovies in a tin.

Alternatively, you can usually spot seals from the observation deck at the Chatham Pier Fish Market (which is also a fantastic place for a lobster roll lunch).

Tip: no matter how cute you think these seals are, remember they are wild animals. Always maintain a safe distance. 

Get lost in the stacks at Montague Bookmill

On a wooded country road along the banks of the Sawmill River on the edge of the micro-town of Montague is a bibliophile’s bliss. The unexpectedly rich and locally beloved Montague Bookmill is a place to get lost for hours. 

The c 1842 building retains the rustic atmosphere the grist mill it was for nearly a century. Today, it contains tens of thousands of volumes in a maze of stacks and shelves, with plenty of comfy chairs and sunny corners to curl up with your treasures. 

With coffee available next door at the Lady Killigrew Café , this place is pretty much perfect.

Behold the dramatic colors of the Aquinnah Cliffs

It’s hard to outdo the red-clay cliffs at the western end of Martha’s Vineyard , both for their sheer natural splendor and their geology, which is unique in Massachusetts. 

Rising 150ft from the ocean , this dramatic glacial formation is a stunner, especially when it reflects rich jewel tones in the late-afternoon sun. Expect gorgeous views – and surprisingly few crowds – at Gay Head public beach.

Catch some of the world’s best artists at a Berkshire summer festival

Whether you’re into live music, theater or dance, you can get your cultural fix amid  the Berkshires ’ forest-covered hills and under star-filled skies. Massachusetts’ western mountain region has been an artistic hub ever since the Gilded Age elite came from New York and Boston to spend their summers amid the greenery. 

No longer as exclusive, it’s now a lovely region for packing a picnic, spreading a blanket and listening to live music at Tanglewood , or watching a dance performance at Jacob’s Pillow . This is Massachusetts summer at its best.

The best places to hike in Massachusetts

Pick (and eat) your own apples amid the fall foliage

Apple picking is the perfect way to get your fix of eye-goggling fall foliage and crispy, local produce. In September and October, apple orchards around the state lure families with hay rides, hedge mazes and other farm animals. 

Others forgo these extras:  Bartlett’s Orchard in Richmond only has trees, yielding a dozen varieties of apples (the local favorite: tart, juicy McIntosh). But the surrounding Berkshire hills – dressed up in extravagant yellows, oranges and reds – make Bartlett’s one of the top places in Massachusetts to take in the splendor.

A word to the wise: no matter where you get your apples, do not pass on apple-cider donuts, an autumn rite of passage each year.

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20+ Best Places To Visit in Massachusetts

Planning a vacation or road trip in Massachusetts and need some destination inspiration? Here’s my guide to the best places to visit in the historic state of Massachusetts. It takes you to all the best towns to visit in Massachusetts.

With this guide, you can create your own Massachusetts bucket list or road trip itinerary.

The Commonwealth of Massachusetts is the most populous state New England. It welcomes nearly 31 million visitors each year. Massachusetts is so much more than just Boston, however much I love that city.

There are so many amazing things to do and see in Massachusetts. You can travel back in history in the tranquility of the state’s quaint Berkshire towns.

There, you’ll find remnants of early America, turn-of-the-century castle homes, and enjoy an artsy county escape.

You can also visit charming towns that played a critical role in America’s Revolution War history. Or indulge in a beach vacation and eat delicious seafood in world famous destinations like Cape Cod, Nantucket, and Martha’s Vineyard.

Come to Massachusetts in the summer to visit the coastal regions and islands. Come in the shoulder season to leaf peep or step back in time at Massachusetts’ historic towns.

READ : Best Fall Foliage Road Trip in New England

Best Places To Visit In Massachusetts

Honestly, you’re spoiled for choice in Massachusetts. Massachusetts is amazing, and it’s not just the lobster.

I know, I’ve lived there and visited many times, taking day trips on each occasion. To my mind, these are the towns and places in Massachusetts that you shouldn’t miss.

Boston is the best city to visit in Massachusetts. The country’s oldest city, Boston is steeped in American history and beautifully situated on the Charles River and Boston Harbor. Boston played a pivotal role in the Revolutionary War.

It’s sometimes called the “Athens of America” or the “cradle of liberty” because it was the source of key ideas that shaped America.

Boston is really a dream destination, especially for history buffs and culture vultures. It has a great foodie scene, wide open green spaces, quaint brick-clad neighborhoods, and first rate museums. Visiting Boston offers all the benefits of a big metropolis without the intensity and frenetic pace of New York City.

One of the best things to do in Boston is to walk the Freedom Trail , a 2.5 mile red brick path taking you to Boston’s historic landmarks. Along the way, you’ll see 16 sites and monuments relating to Boston’s founding and the Revolutionary War.

Before you start, stroll through the verdant Boston Public Garden and Boston Commons, the oldest park in the U.S.

Sports lovers can take in a Red Sox game at Fenway Park. Culture vultures can hit up Boston’s amazing museums. My two favorites are the Museum of Fine Art and the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum .

Architecture enthusiasts should visit the breathtaking Trinity Church and the Boston Public Library at Copley Square. Or head to the stunning Boston Athenaeum .

Nothing beats a stroll in Boston’s beautiful neighborhoods — historic Beacon Hill , the stunning Back Bay, hipster South End, the Italian vibe in the North End, and the Back Bay Fens (where you can admire the Keller Rose Garden).

In Beacon Hill, you can walk down Acorn Street, one of the most Instagrammed streets in the United States.

READ : Guide To the Best Landmarks and Attractions in Boston

• Where to eat : SRV, Beehive, Barcelona Wine Bar, Toro, Mistral, Sonsie, Sweet Cheeks
• Where to stay : Kimpton Nine Zero ,  R itz Carlton , Four Seasons , Inn at St. Botolph , the  Lenox Hotel .
• Experiences : 2.5 hour walking tour  of the Freedom Trail, 2 hour guided walking tour  of the Back Bay, 3 hour tour by Secret Food in the North End

2. Cambridge

Historic Cambridge is a lively university enclave near Boston, with the Charles River as its playground and backyard. But the town has its own unique identity.

Cambridge is home to the renowned Harvard University (where you’ll be wrapped in red brick) and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (where you can admire eclectic modern architecture by some of the US’ best architects).

Both campuses are full of significant architecture, landmarks, and outdoor art.

And it’s not just the universities that dazzle. In Cambridge, visitors can enjoy outstanding museums, a vibrant performing arts scene, and delicious haute cuisine restaurants.

The Harvard Art Museums are the best art spot, with a range of works from antiquity to the present, including a prized van Gogh.

Be sure to hang out in Harvard Square, the iconic center of Cambridge.

It’s a triangular plaza located at the intersection of Battle Street, John F. Kennedy Street, and Massachusetts Avenue. You’ll find all manner of humanity — students, tourists, political activists, buskers, chess players, and other street creatures.

You can also visit Longfellow House . It’s located on Brattle Street, the historic road connecting old Cambridge and Watertown.

It’s famous as the one time home of Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, who wrote stirring tales that thrilled 19th century America, including the Midnight Ride of Paul Revere .

READ : 1 Day Itinerary for Cambridge

• Where to eat : Area Four, Giulia, Harvest, Oleana
• Where to stay : Charles Hotel , Kendall Hotel , Kimpton Marlow Hotel
• Experiences : Harvard University walking tour , MIT walking tour

Salem is definitely one of the best places to visit in Massachusetts. It’s a beautiful seaside town and an easy day trip from Boston at only 30 minutes away.

If you want to bask in the festive fall spirit in New England, there’s no better place than witchy Salem. You can learn about Salem’s creepy past as the “witch capital” of the United States.

Salem embraces rather than shies away from its notorious past, when the infamous 17th century Witch Trials defined the town. Salem is replete with whimsical magic shops, all things haunted horror, and ghostly tour options. Many of Salem’s must see destinations are devoted to its witchy history.

But Salem also boasts beautiful 17th century Colonial and Georgian architecture and delicious seafood. Salem is an eminently walkable town. You’ll be plunged back in time and history to bewitching effect.

Charming Essex Street is a historic cobblestoned district, with the original brick Old Town Hall . Old Town Hall dates from 1816.

The second floor still stands as a public hall and the first floor is used as a public art space. The exterior of the building was featured in the popular Disney Halloween cult film, Hocus Pocus .

Are you a literary fan? If so, you should pay a visit to the House of the Seven Gables . Built in 1668, it’s one of the oldest mansions still standing in the United States.

Nathaniel Hawthorne immortalized the house in his 1851 novel of the same name. Inside, you’ll find a recreation of the secret staircase from the novel.

The mansion is the perfect destination for fans of early Colonial architecture and Georgian interiors.

It’s a prime example of the prosperity of early Salem, with enviable waterfront views. The house where Nathaniel Hawthorne was born is also on the property.

READ : Top Attractions in Sale m

• Where to eat : The Lobster Shanty, Turner’s Seafood, Opus, Firenze Trattoria, Bella Verona
• Where to stay : Hawthorne Hotel , The Merchant , Daniels House Bed and Breakfast
• Experiences : History and hauntings 2+ hour walking tour , Witchcraft trials walk , Ghosts of Salem walking tour

4. Stockbridge

Settled in 1734 by British missionaries, Stockbridge may be my favorite adorable small town in the Berkshires. It’s blessed with simple charm and a fabulous line up of cultural attractions.

Three of the greatest American artists and authors called Stockbridge their home — Edna St. Vincent Millay, Herman Melville, and Norman Rockwell. James Taylor sang about the town in Sweet Baby James .

One of America’s greatest treasures is the Norman Rockwell Museum . Rockwell was one of the greatest artists and illustrators in American history. Stockbridge was Rockwell’s long time residence and what he called his “best studio yet.”

His titular museum is home to a year round series of rotating exhibitions of Rockwell’s art and Saturday Evening Post magazine covers. There are 570 Rockwell illustrations, including the famous Triple Self Portrait and Going and Coming .

You can also visit Chesterwood , the home of Daniel Chester. It’s a 1920s Colonial Revival house, complete with the soaring studio of the legendary sculptor and landscape architect.

Chester created the statue of President Lincoln seated in the Lincoln Memorial in Washington D.C . , and you’ll see plaster models in the museum.

Apart from visual arts and historic, the Berkshire Theater Group provides performing arts entertainment. The IS 183 Gallery has a stash of regional and national art works.

Every summer, Stockbridge (along with the town of Lenox) hosts the Tanglewood Music Festival, a series of concerts across all musical disciplines.

Stockbridge is also home to one of the Berkshires Gilded Age “cottages,” Naumkeag .

You can tour this quirky 44 room mansion designed by Stanford White, famed starchitect of the time. It boasts original furnishings, rooms full of angles and curves, and captivating gardens.

• Where to eat : Once Upon a Table, Truc Orient Express
• Where to stay : Red Lion Inn , The Inn at Stockbridge

Lenox is a pretty town of art galleries and upscale boutiques housed in historic buildings. You’ll find the classic Berkshires experience and some of the region’s most iconic properties — Blantyre, Wheatleigh, Canyon Ranch, and The Mount.

At one point, there were so many lavish summer homes that Lenox was known as “the inland Newport.”

In 1902, Edith Wharton, the first woman to win the Pulitzer Prize in Literature, built The Mount in Lenox. It’s an incredible throwback. It was a stately country retreat for the literary lioness and her then-husband, modeled after European manses but lacking their excesses.

No gaudy entries or vulgar grand staircases for the “Lady of Lenox,” who happily lived a corset free life and wrote Ethan Frome and The House of Mirth there. She did most of her writing in her third floor bedroom — in bed!

The Mount has been beautifully restored to its appearance during Wharton’s tenure. The exterior is a striking white stucco, with clusters of gables and white chimneys and a roof capped with a balustrade and cupola.

The Mount is home to a summer lecture series, weekly bird walks, concerts, theater performances, and outdoor sculpture exhibits. Edith Wharton’s library has been returned to the house, with 22 first editions of her work.

Lenox is also home to Tanglewood , the summer home of the Boston Symphony Orchestra. Tanglewood is a must visit destination for music lovers, especially in the summer months.

Tanglewood’s venues attract a wide variety of musicians in the summer months. You can hear symphony orchestras, solo performances, and world class musicians.

All this makes Lenox one of the best places to visit in Massachusetts.

• Where to eat : Nudel, Wheatleigh, Bistro Zinc, Alpamayo, Cafe Lucia
• Where to stay : Wheatleigh , Hampton Terrace Inn

6. Williamstown

Williamstown is a cool college town, home to Williams College. Williams College is one of the “Little Ivies,” known for its ivy covered buildings, Gothic chapel, and beautiful architecture.

Williamstown is also home to the vaunted Clark Art Institute . It’s one of the United State’s best museums, focusing on historic European and American art.

The museum has been fully renovated and expanded in a mix of architectural styles. The museum is home to some beautiful works by John Singer Sargent and Winslow Homer and a world class collection of French Impressionist paintings (30 Renoir paintings!).

The Clark Institute is located on a 140 acre compound. It has well marked (and free) hiking trails for year round exploration.

The well manicured paths wind through woods, cresting at the top of Stone Hill. From there, you’ll have a beautiful panoramic views of Williamstown and Vermont’s Green Mountains.

At the Williams College Museum of Art you’ll find modern and contemporary art to admire. If you’re visiting in the summer months, you can attend the Williamstown Theatre Festival, a 2002 Tony award winner for outstanding regional theater. Williams College offers concerts, recitals, and theatrical productions.

If you didn’t hike at the Clark Institute, try Pine Cobble Trail. The 3.2 mile trail is a steadily ascending climb to the 1,894 foot summit. From the top, you’ll have beautiful views of Williamstown and North Adams.

• Where to stay : Williams Inn , Fairfield Inn
• Where to eat : A Frame Bakery, Coyote Flaco, Mezze Bistro & Bar, ‘6 House Pub

7. Chatham Massachusetts

The Cape is a no-brainer. But where to stake your claim? Try the inimitable charms of Chatham, a tony New England town where the homes induce jaw drops, the historic center is walkable, and the seafood is hauled in just offshore.

Chatham’s curving Main Street conjures up low key elegance and old world charm. Chatham is the only Cape Code town bounded on three sides by water. It’s consistently ranked as one of the US’ best beach towns.

Chatham Lighthouse Beach is considered the most scenic public beach. It’s set beneath Chatham’s iconic lighthouse. This wild stretch of the Atlantic is the place for long walks and sunbathing (the surf is rough).

If you need a dose of culture with your beach retreat, head to the Orpheum. It’s a restored vintage theater showing first run movies and classics.

Or take in a play or musical at the Monomoy Theater, after browsing the casual to high end shops.

• Where to eat: Impudent Oyster, Del Mar Bar and Bistro, Twenty Eight Atlantic
• Where to stay: Chatham Bars Inn , Queen Anne Inn , The Hawthorne

8. Nantucket Town

Just 30 miles off the New England coast lies the idyllic small town of Nantucket. Nantucket is a place where you can simultaneously hit the beach and be visually stimulated.

In summer months, Nantucket can be a pricey paradise. Of course, the beaches (Jetties, Surfside) are stunning. But the historic center is also adorable with cobbled streets, historic residences, quaint shops, and innovative eateries.

More than a dozen art galleries are sprinkled around the downtown. On Union Street, an international roster of artists have contemporary works on display at the Art Cabinet.

Perhaps the top notch gallery is the Artists’ Association of Nantucket. It features rotating art exhibitions by local, regional, and national artists.

If you’d like to attend a poetry reading or lecture, hit up the Nantucket Atheneum. You can listen to authors, historians, and university professors.

In June, there’s the Nantucket Film Festival, where 30 independent films are screened at different venues.

• Where to stay : White Elephant , Nantucket Hotel & Resort , Greyson House
• Where to eat : The Proprietors Bar & Table, Oran Mor, Greyson House, Dun, Brotherhood of Thieves, Straight Wharf

9. Siasconset

This tiny Nantucket town delivers classic New England style looks — sweeping panoramas of the Atlantic Ocean, rose-covered saltbox houses, and the Sankaty Head Light. The town is nicknamed ‘Sconset. Nowadays, the former fishing houses give way to swanky mansions.

Sconset Beach is the best sandy beach on the north side of Nantucket. It’s an easy walk from town.

Made of white seashells, the Sconset Bluff Walk is the most scenic walk in Nantucket. The public cliff walk leads from Siasconset to the cute Sankaty Head Lighthouse. It takes you by the most beautiful properties on the island.

• Where to stay in Siasconset : Hotel Pippa, The Nantucket Hotel & Resort,
• Where to eat in Siasconset : Sconset Cafe, The Chanticleer, Claudette’s Sandwich Shop, Keeper’s Restaurant

10. Aquinnah, Martha’s Vineyard

Just across the waters from Nantucket, Martha’s Vineyard is one of the best places in Massachusetts to visit that’s known the world over.

Martha’s Vineyard fills up with vacationers in the summer from Boston and New York. They come for the island’s breathtaking natural beauty, vibrant cultural scene, and savvy foodie venues.

But the crowds are centered in the northern edge of the island. Take some time to stroll the streets of Oak Bluffs, Edgartown and Tisbury before heading down southwest, or “up island” as the locals call it, locals and island veterans head to the small town of Aquinnah.

Located below the clay colored Aquinnah Cliffs (a national landmark), the white sand Moshup Beach is a sanctuary from the horde. There’s a cleared path that takes you downhill to the beach, which is strewn with enormous boulders. It’s one of the best beaches in the US.

• Where to eat : Larsen’s Fish Market, Menemsha Gallery
• Where to stay : Outermost Inn

11. Newburyport

First settled in 1635, Newburyport is an immaculate seaside town. It has a classic New England feel, with red brick streets, lobster shacks, and cobbled lanes. Plus “the Port” is only 35 miles from Boston, making it the perfect weekend getaway.

State Street is the heart of Newburyport. You’ll find an eclectic treasure trove of shops — clothing boutiques, bookstores, cafes, and vintage shops.

The Firehouse Center for the Arts is Newburyport’s cultural hotspot, offering concerts, musicals, and plays.

When you tire of shopping, surf and sand lovers can hit the beach. Plum Island is only a 20 minute drive from Newburyport.

Plum Island has beautiful and beloved sandy beaches and dunes. And it’s home to the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge, a hidden gem sanctuary with prime bird watching opportunities.

• Where to stay : Compass Rose Inn , Blue Inn on the Beach , Clark Currier Inn , GarrisonInn Boutique Hotel
• Where to eat : Agave, Black Cow, Brine Oyster Bar, Giuseppe’s Italian Restaurant, Revitalive Cafe & Juice Bar, Brown Sugar Cafe, Ceia Kitchen and Bar

12. Northampton Massachusetts

Just 2 hours from Boston, the rural town of Northampton is a cultural nerve center in New England.

It’s a pretty town, ringed by 5 colleges and college museums. Grand mansions line tree-shaded streets. The beautiful Main Street is filled with with shops, art galleries, bookshops, etc.

In downtown Northampton, there are more than a dozen visual arts venues. The Northampton Center for the Arts offers poetry readings, film screenings, and concerts. The Calvin Theater is the premiere concert venue, hosing major touring music and comedy acts.

Four of the five colleges near Northampton offer theater and visual arts. Smack in the middle of Northampton is Smith College.

Its beautiful Smith College Museum of Art just received a $35 million makeover. The museum offers a year round series of art lectures, contemporary art exhibitions, and films.

Just down the road is Mount Holyoke College Art Museum . It offers contemporary and traditional exhibitions year round. You can also admire contemporary work at Amherst’s Mead Art Museum or check out national and international exhibits at Amherst’s University Gallery.

Northampton has a good foodie scene too, with both great pizzerias and haute cuisine. There are two dairies nearby, so the town’s cheese and ice cream options are among the best in New England.

Hikers can head to the popular Norwottuck Rail Trail Line or Look Park.

• Where to stay : Hotel Northampton , The Ellery , Fairfield Inn
• Where to eat : Bela, Mulino’s Trattoria, Paul and Elizabeth’s, Spoleto, Green Bean

13. Worcester

Right in the heart of the state, Worcester is one of the best places in Massachusetts to explore. It’s the second largest city in Massachusetts after Boston and just an hour away from Beantown.

Once in Worcester, take a gander through the huge exhibitions at the Worcester Art Museum . You can easily spend a good few hours inside.

The museum has works of Impressionism, Roman mosaics on the Renaissance Court floor, medieval armor, and Paul Revere’s silver collection.

Be sure to visit the Bancroft Tower . On the National Register of Historical Places, it’s been around in Worcester since 1900. This fantasy medieval castle was built on a whim to honor a US Navy pioneer. It’s a miniaturized castle in the middle of a park.

At night, you can take in a theater or music performance at the elegant Hanover Inn, Mechanics Hall, or Tuckerman Hall.

• Where to eat : Mezcal Tequila Cantina, Suzette Creoperie & Cafe, Birch Tree Bread Company, Bocado Tapas Bar
• Where to stay : Beechwood Hotel , Courtyard Worcester

14. Plymouth

Situated at the mouth of Cape Cod Bay, Plymouth is a historical haven. The town was the very first permanent settlement by Europeans north of Virginia. Today, it’s a thriving small town with a lovely historic district, perfect for history buffs.

After parking up, head to the Mayflower II , which is a full scale replica of the original 17th century Mayflower. The Mayflower is famous as the ship that brought pilgrims to the US in 1620. You can even take a tour of the ship itself, which is docked in Plymouth Harbor

Also, to learn the pilgrims’ tale, stop in the state’s oldest museum, Pilgrim Hall . There, you’ll find an unmatched collection of ancient artifacts and possessions of the pilgrims.

Afterwards, you’ll get to wander around historic Howland House and visit the 18th century Court House.

If you want to really step back in time, head to Plimoth Plantation . It’s a living museum that aims to explore the daily lives of the Colonial Americans.

The village has been carefully recreated, with thatched roofs and giant open fireplaces. Click here to pre-book a ticket.

The actors in the museum are in period costume and never step out of character. You can watch them performing 17th century tasks including building, gardening, and military exercises.

• Where to eat : KKatie’s Burger Bar, Blue Eyed Crab Grille & Raw Bar, Mamma Mia’s
• Where to stay : Mirbeau Inn & Spa , Hilton Garden Inn

15. Bash Bish Falls, Great Barrington

Near Great Barrington you’ll find the beautiful Bash Bish Falls. Bash Bish is the largest single drop waterfall in Massachusetts. Water is sliced in two by a massive boulder creating a picture perfect double waterfall.

At 80 foot high, it’s not Niagara size. But it’s still pretty. A steep 20 minute trail leads from the parking lot. Bish Bash is on the Massachusetts-New York border. If you want a less challenging hike, drive 1 mile west to the New York side parking lot.

Picturesque Bash Bish Falls has been a popular Berkshires tourist stop since the mid 19th century. When you come upon the falls, you’ll feel as though you’ve discovered a secret, woodland spot. But, be forewarned, there will be many other waterfall pilgrims at this uber popular hiking spot.

• Where to stay in Great Barrington : Fairfield Inn , Thornewood Inn , Granville House
• Where to eat in Great Barrington : Prairie Whale, Rubi’s Cafe, Cheesemongers & Grocers, Meat Market, Bizen, John Andrews

16. Pontoosuc Lake & Berkshires Museum

Around 10 miles from the New York state border is pristine Pontoosuc Lake. It’s is a gem to visit for a stroll or boat ride. Not only that, with nearby Lake Onata, you have two pretty lakes to choose from.

After enjoying the lakes, pop over to the Berkshire Museum in Pittsfield. It’s just undergone a major renovation. The museum showcases everything from a stegosaurus to Alexander Calder mobiles.

If you’re a Henry Melville fan, stop visit his small yellow house, Arrowhead . The author lived in this converted warehouse during his most productive writing years. He wrote Moby Dick in the second floor study. Melville built his porch on the “wrong” side of the house for the best view of Mt. Greylock.

Be sure to indulge in some delicious ice cream at Krispy Cones.

• Where to stay near Pittsfield : Overnight at the excellent choices in Lenox instead.
• Where to eat in Pittsfield : Elizabeth’s, Enso Asian Bistro, Mission Bar and Tapas

17. Stellwagen Bank National Marine Park

Want to view some of the most massive animals on the planet? The Stellwagen Bank National Marine Park is one of the best whale watching spots in the entire world. It’s a wild ocean destination not far from Boston, just 37 miles away.

The sancturay has an extremely productive and diverse environment, which encourages a wide mix of marine wildlife.

Each summer, around 50 recognized humpbacks return. You can also spot dolphins and seals. There are plenty of whale spotting tours available in the area departing from Gloucester or Provincetown. Click here for a list of boat tour operators.

Address : 175 Edward Foster Road, Scituate MA

18. Mt. Greylock Park, Adams

Located near the town of Adams in the Berkshires, and inspiring Herman Melville and Henry David Thoreau, lies Mount Greylock . It’s the highest point in the state at 3,491 feet above sea level. You can drive up to the summit for Massachusetts’ highest viewing point, which features views of five states if visibility is good.

There are plenty of marked hiking trails at Mt. Greylock as well, many starting from the parking lot at the mountain’s base. Click here for the online trail map.

At the top, there’s a War Tower Memorial for WWII veterans, a panoramic view, and Bascom Lodge where you can eat lunch.

According to J.K. Rowling, Mt. Greylock is the location of the North American wizarding school, Ilvermorny. In 2016, J.K. Rowling revealed the name of the school to fans on her Pottermore site.

In Adams, you can also visit the Susan B. Anthony Birthplace Museum .

This museum is dedicated to a woman who played a pivotal role in the suffragette movement. There’s a beautiful collection of postcards commemorating the suffrage, abolition, and temperance movements.

• Where to eat : Bascom Lodge, Coyote Flaco, Mezze Bistro Bar, Grazie, Poweder Hounds Restaurant
• Where to stay : Bascom Lodge, The Williams Inn, The Porches Inn

19. Hancock Shaker Village, Pittsfield

Located near the town of Pittsfield is Hancock Shaker Village . It’s a living slice of American history. The village is a restoration of a small religious community that flourished in the 19th century.

The Shakers migrated from Manchester England. They were an extremely religious sect that believed in the second coming of Christ.

The sect was dubbed the Shakers because the adherents exhibited shaking motions while listening to sermons. The Shakers were also noted pacifists. The group didn’t last forever because they eschewed sex and marriage, resulting in no heirs.

You can tour the Shaker buildings, including a group dwelling house and stone barn, and watch craftsman at work. There are thousands of Shaker artifacts on display.

• Address : 18432 West Housatonic St. Pittsfield
• Where to stay in Pittsfield : Overnight in nearly Lenox instead

20. North Adams

North Adams is a former manufacturing hub reinvented as a cutting edge art town. North Adams is known as “The Town of Steeples and Peaks,” for the spires of its many churches. Come for the art, and stay for the scenery.

North Adams’ downtown is filled with art galleries, artists studios, and cute shops. Its pride and joy is Porches Inn, an eye catching row of distinctive multi-colored Victorians.

What makes North Adams one of the best places to visit in Massachusetts is that’s it’s home to the utterly fabulous Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art (“MASS MoCA”). Opened in 1999, MoCA is one of the region’s foremost cultural institutions, with an emphasis on international contemporary art.

MoCA is home to exciting works by Louise Bourgeois and Robert Rauschenberg. Entire walls are decorated by Sol LeWitt. The museum also has a permanent collection with works by the likes of Manet, Constable, Bonnard, Delacroix, Ingres, and Sargent.

In nearby Natural Bridge State Park, you can view the only natural white marble arch in North America. It was carved as a result of glacial melt over 13,000 years ago. A bridge spans Hudson Brook and twists through a 60 foot gorge.

You can also hike the Cascade Trail . The 1.2 mile trail follows Notch Brook up to a cascading waterfall (photo above). It’s an easy one hour or so trail, with one riverbank crossing.

• Where to stay in North Adams : Porches Inn , Tourists
• Where to eat in North Adams : Gramercy Bistro, Grazie, Public Eat and Drink

21. Concord: Literary Legends

Just 15 miles north of Boston is the town of Concord, a steeple-studded town home to pretty Walden Pond . Walden Pond is a nature preserve home to countless local flora and fauna. Walden Pond is both beautiful and has a unique history.

Walden Pond is forever linked to novelist Henry David Thoreau. From 1845 to 1847, he while lived in a one room cabin, the property of his friend and mentor Ralph Waldo Emerson. (A replica of the original cabin is about half a mile away.)

There, he wrote one of America’s most famous novels, Walden or Life in the Woods. Walden explored simplistic living, solitude, and harmony with nature.

In Concord, you can also visit Louisa May Alcott’s Orchard House. The novelist based Little Women on her experiences growing up in this house with her sisters.

Today, the historic home is a museum. It has 80% of its original period furniture.

You can tour the kitchen, dining room, parlor, art studio, and the bedrooms. Louisa’s bedroom has the small white desk where she penned Little Women and other books.

For an overview of Concord’s Revolutionary history and literary legacy visit the excellent Concord Museum . On display, you’ll find Native American artifacts, Thoreau’s snowshoes and furniture, Ralph Waldo Emerson’s study, Paul Revere’s original signaling lantern, and period collections of decorative arts and furniture.

Concord’s Sleepy Hollow Cemetery is filled with graves of famous authors, if you want to pay them homage. You’ll find the final resting places of Thoreau, Emerson, Alcott, and William Ellery Channing.

• Where to eat : Main Streets Market & Cafe, 80 Thoreau, Woods Hill Table, Bondir
• Where to stay : Colonial Inn , Residence Inn Marriott

22. Lexington

If your’e a history buff, just northwest of Boston is historic Lexington. On April 18, 1775, patriot leader Paul Revere alerted the town that the British were coming. The next day, the first shots in the War of Independence were fired.

A renowned statue by sculptor Henry Hudson Kitson marks Battle Green , where colonial Minutemen clashed with British troops. In Minuteman National Historical Park, you can see a multimedia exhibit on the Road to Revolution.

While waiting for the British, the Minutemen and their commander, Captain Parker, gathered in the Buckman Tavern .

The interior is preserved exactly as it appeared in the 18th century, complete with the original seven foot wide open fireplace. The old front door still contains British musket-ball holes.

Built in the early 1690s, Munroe Tavern became a field hospital for the wounded. You can take a 30 mixture tour and examine period artifacts and furniture.

The Hancock-Clarke House contains period furniture of the Clarke family and Reverend John Hancock, grandfather of the signer of the Declaration of Independence.

• Where to eat : La Dolda, Il Casale, Town Meeting Bistro
• Where to stay : Inn at Hastings Park , Element Lexington

I hope you’ve enjoyed my guide to the best and most beautiful places to visit in Massachusetts. You may enjoy these other United States travel guides and resources:

• 45 amazing destinations in the United States
• Fall foliage around Washington D.C.
• 10 day itinerary for New Hampshire
• 10 day itinerary for coastal Maine
• 7-10 day itinerary for Vermont
• Hidden Gems on the East Coast
• 2 week itinerary for the American Southwest
• 10 day itinerary for southern California

​If you’d like to explore the best destinations in Massachusetts, pin it for later.

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Last Updated on March 11, 2023 by Leslie Livingston

Boston   Travel Guide

30 Top-Rated Things to Do in Boston

As Massachusetts' capital and the birthplace of the American Revolution, there's no shortage of historical sites for travelers to explore within Boston's city limits (and beyond). There's even a Boston Tea Party Museum on the harbor

• All Things To Do
• 1-Day Itinerary
• 2-Day Itinerary
• 3-Day Itinerary

Freedom Trail Freedom Trail free

Stretching 2½ miles, the Freedom Trail weaves past 16 of the city's most historic sites, including Faneuil Hall Marketplace , the Paul Revere House and Old North Church . Taking in all of the trail's attractions requires at least half a day (and some comfortable walking shoes), but you can easily plot points of interest before you begin your jaunt from Boston Common .

Though most visitors agree the trail is easy to navigate on your own, some recommend a guided tour or downloading an app to tell you about the sites. (You'll find a handful of apps available for Apple and Android devices.) If you have a Go Boston Card, standard guided tours given by the Freedom Trail Foundation are covered by your pass.

Faneuil Hall Marketplace and Quincy Market Faneuil Hall Marketplace and Quincy Market free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Every Friday and Saturday, Haymarket (one America's oldest open-air markets) pops up adjacent to Faneuil Hall. In order to navigate this often-chaotic scene successfully make sure to bring small bills, leave bulky bags at the hotel and keep it moving on the sidewalk. - Jill LeGrow

Four buildings – Faneuil Hall, Quincy Market, North Market and South Market – constitute Faneuil Hall Marketplace, with the oldest being Faneuil Hall. Built in 1742 and now a stop on the Freedom Trail , Faneuil Hall has had a long and important history in Massachusetts politics. Samuel Adams once stood here to push for resistance against the British, and abolitionists and suffragists have stood on their soapboxes here. In fact, this is where colonists famously challenged the Stamp Act of 1764 by proclaiming, "no taxation without representation." From those illustrious days, the marketplace has expanded to include more than 100 shops and restaurants.

Boston Public Garden Boston Public Garden free

Though the Boston Public Garden sits right next to Boston Common , the two are quite different. The public garden is newer (established in 1837) and holds the distinction of being America's first public botanical garden. Flowers and trees are beautifully organized and kept in quality condition throughout. You can see the colorful arrangements and exotic trees from the 6-acre pond as you glide along the water in a Swan Boat. Additionally, the park houses two of Boston's most iconic statues: Make Way for Ducklings (a bronze sculpture of a duck and her eight ducklings) and a sculpture of George Washington (which shows America's first president riding on a horse).

Visitors looking to relax after sightseeing will enjoy the Boston Public Garden. Parkgoers say you'll find plenty of shade beneath the park's trees, which comes in handy on hot summer days. Plus, you'll likely spot some ducks and geese swimming around the lagoon. And if you have a few dollars, visitors recommend taking a 15-minute ride on a Swan Boat. The large paddle boats cost $4.50 to ride (or $3 for kids ages 2 to 15 and $4 for seniors); travelers with Go Boston Cards ride for free. Swan Boats are usually available between mid-April and Labor Day.

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North End North End free

Chances are you'll end up in the North End at least once during your visit to Boston. It's steeped in the city's rich history as it holds the title of Boston's oldest neighborhood and houses three attractions on the Freedom Trail . What makes this neighborhood a top point of interest, however, is its Italian culture: The North End is considered Boston's Little Italy.

While Italians weren't the first to settle in this area (English settlers arrived first then European Jews, African Americans and Irish immigrants), their cultural influence on the North End withstood the test of time. Today, you'll find all kinds of Italian food from classic pizza pies served at the popular Regina Pizzeria to Sicilian-style seafood, such as black linguine (made with squid ink) and calamari meatballs at The Daily Catch . For dinner, try Mamma Maria for fine dining, Giacomo's for its affordable, made-in-house pasta or Bricco , which sources its meats and bread from its own meat and bread shop, located right next door. If you’re only interested in pizza, hit up Galleria Umberto for delectable solo slices or Antico Forno for its full-size, wood-fired pies. Prezza is known for its extensive wine list, boasting hundreds of wine labels to choose from. For dessert, make sure to pick up a cannoli at Mike's Pastry or Modern Pastry , or tiramisu at the 24-hour Bova's Bakery .

Museum of Fine Arts Museum of Fine Arts

If you want to make the most out of the Museum of Fine Arts, one of the most comprehensive art institutions in the country, then you'll need to spend a good chunk of your day here. The museum is home to one of the best art collections in the world, including the celebrated Art of the Americas wing. Inside this sprawling collection, you'll encounter galleries showcasing iconic pieces from indigenous cultures in North, South and Central America to works by contemporary artists like Edward Hopper.

You'll also find an impressive collection of Asian art here, plus works from Monet, Renoir, Manet and Rembrandt on display. And in special temporary exhibits, you can admire masterpieces from Black artists like Diedrick Brackens and Picasso, among others.

Boston Common Boston Common free

The grounds of Boston Common started as a cow pasture in the mid-1600s. It was also used for Puritan punishments, like whipping, and even for hangings. In 1768, the area was transformed into a British camp. After the Revolutionary War, the park became a popular locale for public speeches and rallies. Now, the Common is best known because of its status as the oldest public park in the country. You'll also find a variety of activities and events – including theater and musical performances and free fitness classes – hosted here throughout the year. If you plan to traverse the Freedom Trail , you'll start the walk here at Boston Common.

Though some visitors say you won't find much to do in this park, Boston Common is great for picnics or a leisurely stroll. Travelers also mention that this site is a wonderful spot to take young children. In addition to ample running room on the park's green space, kids can play at the Tadpole Playground or Frog Pond. Frog Pond offers a spray pool during the warmer months and an ice skating rink in the winter. Some visitors do note that the park tends to draw Boston's homeless population, particularly at night.

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Fenway Park Fenway Park

U.S. News Insider Tip: If you want to watch a Sox game without a ticket, head to the Bleacher Bar on Lansdowne Street. Located beneath the bleachers of Fenway, the best tables are positioned directly in front of the huge garage window that overlook centerfield. – Jill LeGrow

Fans of America's favorite pastime won't want to miss a game at Fenway Park. Home to the Boston Red Sox, this stadium has been the site of home runs, stolen bases and grounders since 1912. Regardless of whether or not you're a diehard Red Sox fan, you should try to catch a game and admire the ballpark's original architecture. Must-see features of the park include Pesky's Pole – the right field foul pole named after former Red Sox player Johnny Pesky – and the 37-foot-tall "Green Monster" wall in left field.

Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

After Isabella Stewart Gardner's husband died in 1898, the art enthusiast carried out their plan to buy land in Boston's Fenway area and open a museum to display her impressive collection of Italian art. The museum, which was fashioned after the Palazzo Barbaro in Venice , was completed in 1901, at which point Gardner moved in to the fourth floor and began installing her collection. Today, you can visit this Boston museum to get your fill of the Italian masters, such as Raphael and Titian. The building also showcases a cache of beautiful furniture, photographs, sculpture and rare books straight from Europe. The museum's New Wing, designed by Renzo Piano, includes a glass atrium, greenhouses and landscaped gardens.

The art isn't the only interesting thing here: the museum is also the site of the single largest property theft on Earth. In the wee hours of March 18, 1990, two thieves made their way into the museum disguised as police. The duo stole 13 works, including pieces by Rembrandt, Vermeer, Degas and Manet. Today, the museum has empty frames on the walls as placeholders until the art returns to the museum. As you may have guessed, the crime has not been solved and the works haven't been recovered. The museum is even offering a sizable reward ($10 million) for information leading to the art. 

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Boston Public Library Boston Public Library free

A library isn't always all about books. The main branch of the Boston Public Library in Copley Square, which opened in 1895, is so much more, according to recent visitors who call the architecture "beautiful" and a “must-see.” Walking into the Renaissance Revival building is akin to visiting a museum. On Dartmouth Street, two immense stone lions sculpted by Louis Saint-Gaudens stand guard by the main entrance. Inside, Bates Hall, the library's main reference reading room, is a 218-foot-long room with a barrel-arch ceiling soaring 50 feet high.

Visitors can take a free tour and learn all about the murals found throughout the library, including John Singer Sargent's series on the "Triumph of Religion." Other murals include works by French artist Pierre Puvis de Chavannes, who depicted eight library-centric disciplines in "The Muses of Inspiration," and Edwin Austin Abbey's "The Quest and Achievement of the Holy Grail."

John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum

A must for any history buffs or fans of our nation's 35th president, this excellent library and museum details the life of President John F. Kennedy. Exhibits include his presidential papers; masses of Kennedy memorabilia, including re-creations of his desk in the Oval Office and of the television studio in which he debated Richard M. Nixon in the 1960 election; and artifacts from the U.S. space program. There's permanent display on the late Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis plus plenty of other artifacts and information about Kennedy's life and presidency. The building itself is quite striking and was designed by architect I. M. Pei.

Museumgoers say that while the museum is off the beaten path (it sits about 5 miles south of downtown on Columbia Point), it is well worth the trek thanks to the exhibits and staff. However, some wish the exhibits had a more detailed explanation of Kennedy and events during his life. The views from the museum are amazing, add some visitors.

Boston Harbor Islands National and State Park Boston Harbor Islands National and State Park

If you want to get outdoors in the greater Boston area, consider hopping a ferry (which operates from mid-May through mid-October) to the Boston Harbor Islands. This collection of 34 islands located in the Massachusetts Bay boasts plenty of things to do and see including historic sites, hiking trails, beaches, wildlife and much more. Popular islands include Spectacle, Georges and Peddocks, though ferries also go to Lovells, Grape, Bumpkin and Thompson.

The 114-acre Spectacle Island is a great option for those looking to hike. Here, you'll find 5 miles of trails, including one which leads to the harbor's highest hill, offering incredible views of Boston's skyline. If you’re looking for a place where you can sink your toes into the sand, head to Lovells Island. Here, you’ll find secluded shorelines as well as tide pools (when it's low tide, a whopping 71 acres are added to the island's land mass). Meanwhile, history lovers will enjoy a trip to Georges Island. Georges Island is home to Fort Warren, which the U.S. government used for patrolling and training Union troops as well as housing Confederate prisoners during Civil War times. Peddocks Island, one of the largest of the Boston Harbor Islands, offers a little bit of everything. This island is considered a prime camping spot and features scenic hiking trails that pass through coastal forests, headlands connected by tombolos and the biggest beach of any island. You'll also find a little bit of history thanks to Fort Andrews and a restored chapel from World War II.

Newbury Street Newbury Street free

Located in the Back Bay along eight blocks between Massachusetts Avenue and Arlington Street, Newbury Street is home to gorgeous 19th century brownstones. It's also Boston's premiere destination for dining and shopping. Newbury Street has been called one of the most expensive streets in the world, thanks in large part to the significant cluster of expensive shops on the lower end (by numbered address) nearest Arlington Street.

Starting at the higher end, by Massachusetts Avenue, you'll find more budget-friendly retailers like TJ Maxx and Forever 21, as well longtime local favorites Newbury Comics and Trident Booksellers. In fact, Newbury Comics' opening in 1978 was the catalyst that began the transformation of Newbury Street from a heavily upper-class retail destination to a hipper, trendier spot for everyone.

Samuel Adams Brewery Samuel Adams Brewery

Despite its location outside of city center, visiting the Samuel Adams Brewery is a popular stop for beer lovers. This brewery location acts as Samuel Adams' testing facility for new and specialty brews, which patrons can try. You can also take a guided tour of the facility to learn more about the brewing process.

Whether you're a local or a tourist, odds are you'll enjoy a visit to this brewery. Visitors say the staff is knowledgeable, but note there can be long entry lines.

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Cambridge Cambridge free

Cambridge, which sits about 3 miles northwest of Boston's city center, is home to both Harvard University and MIT , but there's more to see in Cambridge than just the schools themselves. The city features an impressive array of cultural institutions that feature collections and exhibitions ranging from fine art to technological innovations.

The Harvard Art Museums , which include the Fogg Museum, Busch-Reisinger Museum and Arthur M. Sackler Museum, house a wide range of periods, styles and mediums within its walls. Here, you’ll find a mix of modern photography, 13th century sculpture, paintings from legends like Georgia O’Keeffe, Picasso and Jackson Pollock, and much more. If you prefer history, head to the Peabody Museum of Archaeology & Ethnology , which boasts exhibits exploring everything from ancient Latin American cultures to the evolution of American eating habits and tableware to the lives of Native Americans. If science is more your speed, head to the Harvard Museum of Natural History to view dinosaur fossils, rare minerals and animal specimens from New England to Asia.

Beacon Hill Beacon Hill free

Beacon Hill is arguably Boston's most beautiful neighborhood. Located north of Boston Common , Beacon Hill is awash with quaint, cobblestone-lined alleyways, corners dotted with gas street lamps, stately townhouses affixed with bay view windows and vibrant, flower-filled window boxes. It's Beacon Hill's incredible style, a stunning mix of Federal and Greek revival architecture, that make this neighborhood an attraction in and of itself. And recent visitors couldn't agree more.

Travelers who venture to Beacon Hill are charmed by its beauty and say that it's the perfect place to take a long stroll and wander around. While here, make sure to make your way to noteworthy spots including the picturesque Louisburg Square and Acorn Street, the latter of which is one of the most photographed places in Boston. After, head down Charles Street, where you'll find restaurants, shops and bars. Fans of the TV show "Cheers" will want to walk down Beacon Street to find the bar that inspired the program.

Old North Church Old North Church

Most people who know anything about American history have heard of Paul Revere's famous midnight ride, when he rode through town to warn people about the arrival of British troops. Before heading off to Lexington, Revere gave orders at Old North Church. Robert Newman – the church's sexton – and Captain John Pulling Jr. – the church's vestryman – then climbed the steeple and held two lanterns as a signal that the British were indeed coming, but by sea.

The church itself, which is officially named Christ Church, is filled with beautiful relics from the past, including North America's oldest set of change ringing bells and chandeliers brought in from England in the early 1700s. The pews have a long history as well; Pew No. 54 was reserved for Paul Revere's son.

Boston Children's Museum Boston Children's Museum

With a giant milk bottle structure at the front of the building, it's hard to miss the Boston Children's Museum. Here, hands-on exhibits present a fun and engaging way for kids to learn about various sciences, culture, art and health and wellness, among other subjects. Among the museum's standout exhibits are "Construction Zone," where little ones can learn about and play with kid-sized construction equipment, "The Common," where kids play with color, games and music, and "Japanese House" – a 100-year-old authentic Japanese house reconstructed in Boston by Japanese carpenters.

Museumgoers praise the variety of engaging exhibits tailored to kids within different age groups and can't recommend it enough. Others warn the museum gets crowded, especially in the summer.

Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway free

Boston is packed with cool outdoor spaces, but this nearly 1½-mile-long series of parks and gardens offers more than most. The Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway was established to link Boston's diverse neighborhoods through a series of lawns, parks and walkways that occupy a former highway tunnel. Since opening in 2008, visitors have flocked to this sprawling green space to enjoy temporary public art displays, bubbling fountains, numerous food vendors and a carousel. Plus, the park offers free weekly events, including food and art festivals, summer concert performances and seasonal fitness classes.

Many previous visitors said the Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway not only offers a much-needed respite from the city, but also an easy way to explore Boston with kids during the warmer months. And, in many sections of the Greenway, you're never more than a few steps away from the Freedom Trail .

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Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum

This hands-on museum offers an entertaining look at one of Boston's pivotal moments. You can toss (fake) tea overboard, climb around replica ships and converse with period actors about Colonial issues. Exhibits at the museum, which is located on Griffin's Wharf (close to where the actual Tea Party occurred on Dec. 16, 1773) include 3D holograms, talking portraits and the Robinson Tea Chest, an authentic tea chest from the Boston Tea Party. Two of the three ships have been recreated, the Beaver and the Eleanor, which are fun to explore. The film "Let It Begin Here" depicts the events that immediately preceded the American Revolution. You can also grab a cup of tea or a snack in Abigail's Tea Room, which has one of the best views of the harbor around.

Visitors love the interactive nature of the museum and tossing tea overboard, saying their time there was entertaining for all ages. They also add that the guides are informative and stay in character.

Museum of Science Museum of Science

If you're traveling with young ones in tow, be sure to swing by the Museum of Science. Here, kids can learn about astronomy, earth sciences and anatomy, not to mention participate in some fun interactive exhibits. Budding scientists can examine the Arctic in "Arctic Adventure: Exploring with Technology" exhibit or play on swings to learn about physics in "Science in the Park." The museum also features the Charles Hayden Planetarium, where you can indulge your inner astronaut during shows. Meanwhile, at the Mugar Omni Theater, you'll feel like you're actually in the IMAX film thanks to its cutting-edge sound technology and five-story-high projection screen.

Although the museum is very kid-focused, past visitors said that young-at-heart adults and even teens will get a kick out of the museum's engaging displays and shows. Though most travelers spend about half a day exploring the museum, you could easily allocate an entire day to this attraction. Also, remember that separate tickets (which cost extra) are needed for some museum features, such as IMAX films, planetarium shows and the Garden Walk and Insect Zoo.

Boston Duck Tours Boston Duck Tours

Wander Boston for a couple of hours and you're sure to see a Duck Tour quacking its way through the streets (and waterways). These "Truck Duck" vehicles recreate the look of a DUKW truck used by the U.S. military during World War II and transport tourists all over the city by land and water. The tours drive past a number of landmark sites including the Old State House, Newbury Street , Prudential Tower, Public Garden and the Swan Boats, and Copley Square (home to the Boston Public Library ). Once launched into the water, you'll cruise down the Charles River checking out MIT, the Longfellow Bridge, as well as the Esplanade and the Hatch Shell. 

Besides giving tours around the city, Boston Duck Tour boats have been used in all of the victory parades since 2002 for the Patriots, Red Sox, Celtics and Bruins (the city's major teams for football, baseball, basketball and hockey, respectively). What started off simply as a way to roll the Patriots through downtown Boston for a Superbowl celebration has turned into a much-loved tradition that continues today.

Boston Symphony Orchestra Boston Symphony Orchestra

Even if you're not a classical music aficionado, you can't miss attending one of the Boston Symphony Orchestra's world-renowned performances at Symphony Hall. The BSO began performing in 1881. Today, the symphony performs everything from family shows to traditional concerts and Boston Pops – a lively performance filled with singing and a variety of music. The BSO performs at Symphony Hall from September through April, then heads to Tanglewood (which is about 130 miles west of Boston) in the summer.

Past spectators not only praised the world-class talent, but also noted the impressive acoustics of Symphony Hall as a main selling point for attending future concerts. If you can't score tickets to an orchestra performance, consider taking a free tour of Symphony Hall. Tours, which are offered in the fall, winter and spring, provide information about the property, as well as insight into the orchestra's musicians and conductors.

New England Holocaust Memorial New England Holocaust Memorial free

Gaze up at the six 54-foot glass towers that comprise the New England Holocaust Memorial, and you're bound to be awestruck. Dedicated in 1995, each haunting tower is etched with numbers. The 6 million numbers represent the Holocaust's victims, while the towers represent the six major death camps. There is also a granite path covered in quotes from survivors that leads visitors inside the towers.

Recent visitors described walking through the columns as an emotionally charged and unforgettable experience. The monument's location next to Faneuil Hall Marketplace makes it very accessible while walking the Freedom Trail .

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Paul Revere House Paul Revere House

For a glimpse of what life was like in the late 1700s, head to Paul Revere's former residence in the North End . The house, which is situated on the Freedom Trail , offers insight into how homes looked in Revere's time (it's even filled with period pieces, including fine silver). Inside, history fans can admire the building's sweeping beams, spacious fireplaces and some original furnishings owned by the Revere family.

If you like American history, travelers say you'll enjoy seeing the Paul Revere House. This house is small, though, so don't allot more than an hour to tour the property. Docents are friendly and knowledgeable.

Massachusetts State House Massachusetts State House free

The golden-domed Massachusetts State House is an important building for many reasons and is one of the stops on the Freedom Trail . The land it sits on was originally used as John Hancock’s cow pasture. It was designed by Charles Bulfinch and completed in 1798 and the cornerstone was laid by Samuel Adams in 1795. A copper dome was installed by Paul Revere in 1802 (later covered in gold). Nowadays, senators, state representatives and the governor conduct the Commonwealth's business here.

Free tours are offered by docents who explain the building's history and discuss the important art and architecture within. Make sure to look for the Sacred Cod in the House of Representatives Chamber. The almost 5-foot wooden cod symbolizes the importance of the salt cod industry to the area.

New England Aquarium New England Aquarium

Your kids will find plenty to love at the New England Aquarium, starting with the Atlantic harbor seals that hang out just beyond the ticket booth. Inside, you'll find thousands of marine critters to study, and at the center: the Giant Ocean Tank. This four-story tank includes a coral reef habitat that houses more than 1,000 underwater creatures including green sea turtles, eels and barracuda. In other parts of the aquarium, you'll find exhibits dedicated to penguins, sea jellies and seadragons, plus a six-story high projection movie screen with digital surround sound, where you can watch films about sea creatures and more. And don't forget to check out the Shark and Ray Touch Tank, which allows visitors to graze sharks and rays as they swim by.

While some visitors bemoan the aquarium's compact size (which, in turn, made for thick crowds), many appreciate the attraction's variety of animals. Several travelers also recommend watching a penguin or seal feeding.

USS Constitution USS Constitution free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Every July 4th, the USS Constitution takes her annual "turnaround" sail in Boston Harbor. The particular sail is the only one open to the public and the US Navy holds a lottery with the lucky winners getting to board "Old Ironsides." – Jill LeGrow

History lovers, boat enthusiasts and military aficionados alike can't miss the chance to board the USS Constitution. Docked at the Boston National Historical Park in Charlestown, this historic vessel is the world's oldest commissioned warship still operational today. It is helmed by United States Navy sailors, who also serve as the ship's guides. The ship's accompanying museums displays nearly 2,000 artifacts related to the ship's history.

Bunker Hill Monument Bunker Hill Monument free

Bunker Hill Monument is part of the Boston National Historical Park and a stop on the Freedom Trail . The first major battle of the American Revolution took place on Breed's Hill in June 1775, though originally it was supposed to take place on nearby Bunker Hill. Names aside, the British won the battle but fared worse than their American foes. The British sacrificed about nearly half of their 2,400 men; American casualties were between 300 and 500 out of an army of 1,400 to 1,800 soldiers. Construction of the monument started in 1827 and was completed in 1842. The 221-foot granite obelisk offers fabulous views from its observatory, though you have to work for it by climbing 294 steps to the top.

Start your visit at the Bunker Hill Museum, located across the street. Exhibits explain the Battle of Bunker Hill, the construction of the monument, and the history of Charlestown. Free tickets are required to climb the monument and you can also pick them up at the museum. Visitors enjoy the museum and say the monument is awe-inspiring and the grounds beautiful.

Salem High Speed Ferry to / from Boston

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from $ 27.50

Sightseeing Day Sail around Boston Harbor

(268 reviews)

from $ 58.45

Boston Day Tour by Ferry: Salem Witch Trials Past to Present

(34 reviews)

View Boston View Boston

U.S. News Insider Tip: To save some cash on your sightseeing, pick up a Boston CityPass which allows you to visit up to four attractions (such as the Museum of Science , New England Aquarium , Boston Harbor City Cruise and View Boston) for one discounted price. – Jill LeGrow

Replacing the iconic Top of the Hub restaurant and Skywalk Observatory that closed in 2020, View Boston opened in June 2023 to offer 360 panoramic views of Boston from atop the 52nd floor of the Prudential Center. Taking over the top three floors of the Prudential Center, View Boston includes an observatory, a wraparound roof deck and indoor/outdoor cocktail bar called Stratus, and a floor with interactive exhibits such as a projection-mapped 3D model of Boston. There's also Beacon, a bistro offering seasonal beverages and food.

The Mapparium The Mapparium

Located at the Mary Baker Eddy Library, this three-story, stained glass globe never fails to elicit wonder. Designed by the architect of the Christian Science Publishing Society building, Chester Lindsay Churchill, the globe depicts the world as it was in 1935.

The "How Do You See the World" experience includes the globe; the "Our World: Mapping Progress," which highlights humanity's achievements since 1935; and "Points of Progress," where you can learn about significant events in human rights, scientific advances, exploration, and other fields. A 10-minute audio narration features clips from President Franklin D. Roosevelt, Jane Goodall, Wangari Maathai (a Kenyan Nobel laureate) and others. One of the coolest features of the globe is that it is a "whispering gallery." Stand at one end of the gallery while a friend stands at the other. Whisper something to them and they will be the only one to hear it.

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33 Best Things to Do in Massachusetts

By Alex Schultz · Last updated on May 4, 2024

As one of the original Thirteen Colonies and birthplace of the American Revolution, it is no wonder Massachusetts is renowned for its rich history and heritage. While countless impressive monuments and important historic sites litter the Bay State, it also has scenic spots such as Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket for holidaymakers to enjoy.

Tucked away in the northeast of the United States in New England, its long Atlantic Ocean coastline is dominated by the three ginormous bays that shape it. It was here in the early seventeenth-century that the first colonists arrived and set up settlements like Salem and Boston. Along with the Plimoth Patuxet Museums and Old Sturbridge Village, they now offer a captivating look into the state’s past.

With old battlefields and atmospheric whaling towns to see alongside pristine beaches and Boston’s exciting nightlife scene, there are enough things to do in Massachusetts that will appeal to everyone.

33. Peabody Essex Museum, Salem

Lying right in the historic heart of Salem is one of the charming coastal city’s top cultural institutes: the outstanding Peabody Essex Museum. As well as boasting an extensive collection of Asian art, it has artifacts and exhibits covering the area’s maritime history.

One of the oldest continuously operating museums in the States, its roots date to 1799 when the East India Marine Society was founded. Nowadays over a million works of art and culture pack its grand galleries. While some sections focus on Native American art or Salem’s connection to the sea, others transport you as far away as Africa, Asia and Oceania.

In addition to phenomenal paintings and photos, the museum campus has two dozen historic houses and gardens to explore with the Yin Yu Tang House being a particular highlight.

32. Bash Bish Falls

Now protected as part of a state park, the beautiful Bash Bish Falls can be found in the southwest of the state, not far from Mount Washington. Besides making for some fantastic photos and viewing, it has numerous hikes and campsites to enjoy in the surrounding area.

Tucked away amidst the Taconic Mountains, it towers almost 200 feet in height with its bright white waters standing out delightfully against the jagged rocks and lush foliage. After coursing their way through a series of gorges, the cascades plunge into a serene pool overlooked by a scenic viewpoint.

The largest and arguably loveliest waterfall in the Bay State, its final falls are divided in two by a dramatic-looking boulder perched on the mountainside. After snapping some pics, take time to hike the mountains and forests around it.

31. John F Kennedy Hyannis Museum

Offering up a fascinating look into the life and legacy of the former president is the John F Kennedy Hyannis Museum. Due to his connection with Cape Cod, JFK frequently visited with photos, videos and oral testimonies all highlighting how he holidayed here with family and friends.

As Hyannis Port was considered the ‘heart and home’ of the Kennedys, it is no wonder the museum is located in what was formerly its town hall. Its exhibits show how John, Jackie and the kids spent their summers swimming and sailing, away from the endless demands of the Oval Office.

Asides from seeing joyful photos of the family laughing and relaxing, there is also a fabulous video to watch on the president’s powerful and poignant ‘Ripple of Hope’ speech.

30. Heritage Museums & Gardens, Sandwich

A very peaceful and picturesque place, the Heritage Museums & Gardens lie just twenty minutes to the northwest of Hyannis. Alongside gorgeous grounds displaying rhododendrons and hydrangeas, there are three gallery buildings containing antique cars and American folk art to explore.

Sprawling across a huge area just outside of Sandwich, its gardens now protect the former estate of Charles Dexter. Between 1921 and 1943, the renowned rhododendron hybridizer planted thousands of species of trees, shrubs and flowers with it still being noted for its colorful collections of plants.

After having ambled amidst its delightful daylilies and seen its 1800s Old East Mill, it is well worth checking out its classic cars and Native American carvings. One of the museums’ main attractions, however, remains its lovely Looff Carousel hand-crafted in 1908.

29. Hammond Castle Museum

Exhibiting an exquisite mix of architectural styles, Hammond Castle overlooks the state’s attractive Atlantic Ocean coastline. Now open to the public as a museum, it displays lots of Roman, Medieval and Renaissance artifacts along with exhibits on the inventor’s many amazing inventions.

Built between 1926 and 1929, John Hays Hammond Jr’s dream residence looks like a cross between a castle and cathedral. As such, towers and turrets both feature alongside the detailed facades of old medieval shops and fetching flying buttresses. Its grand chambers and elegant art-decked hallways only make his former home and laboratory even more interesting to explore.

The museum also presents an extensive list of the pioneer’s patents that remarkably numbered more than 400 in total. As well as old organs and religious icons, visitors can also enjoy sweeping views over Gloucester Harbour from its clifftop setting.

28. Basketball Hall of Fame, Springfield

As the popular sport was actually invented in the city, it is only appropriate that the Basketball Hall of Fame is one of Springfield’s main sights. Set just south of the center, its three vast floors have all kinds of unique old memorabilia and interactive exhibits to wander around.

Instantly recognizable from the building’s silver, ball-shaped sphere, the museum was established in 1959 to promote and preserve the history of basketball. Unlike other halls of fame in the country, it honors both international and American professionals and amateurs with 400 coaches, referees and A-list stars having been inducted to date.

Besides learning about legends Magic Johnson and Michael Jordan, you can see their signed shoes and uniforms, plus watch clips of them in action. As its displays are centered around a full-sized court, you can even shoot some hoops at the museum.

27. New Bedford Whaling Museum

Yet another excellent institute to visit in Massachusetts is the New Bedford Whaling Museum which looks at the history, art and culture of the international industry. As whaling was once so important to the town, its complex of historical buildings and galleries now sprawls across a whole city block.

Since being founded in 1903, the museum has grown and grown with its collection now numbering around 750,000 objects in total. As well as weathered old captains’ logbooks and intricately-carved ivory engravings, you can see the full skeletons of five absolutely enormous whales and the Lagoda – the world’s largest model ship.

Other enthralling exhibits document the evolution of the industry over the ages in countries like the US and Japan among others.

26. Commercial Street, Provincetown

Due to its beautiful beaches and captivating art scene, Provincetown at the very tip of Cape Cod has long been a popular holiday destination. Most of its bustling businesses and eclectic art galleries can be found along Commercial Street which acts as the heart and soul of life in town.

Lined by lots of attractive houses and cosy cottages, the long street runs right through the center of P-town, parallel to the bay. Clustered at its Eastern End are around forty lovely little galleries where you can pick up paintings and prints or meet artists and sip wine at their Friday evening opening.

Countless cool shops and cute cafes are also scattered along the lively yet laidback street where you often encounter men in drag and other revelers enjoying the town’s vibrant nightlife.

25. Adams National Historical Park

For those interested in learning more about the history of the country, the Adams National Historical Park is definitely not to be missed. This is because it preserves the homes of two former presidents whose ideas and actions helped transform the thirteen colonies into one united nation.

Located just fifteen minutes’ drive south of Boston outside Quincy, the large complex encompasses eleven historic buildings with the oldest dating to 1731. Inside, artifacts and exhibits tell the story of five generations of the Adams family and recount the profound impact they had on the early United States and its formation.

In addition to seeing the birthplaces of both John Adams and John Quincy Adams, visitors can stroll around landscaped gardens and the Stone Library, full of old tomes belonging to the family.

24. Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

Just up the road in nearby Boston is another of the state’s must-see sights: the awe-inspiring Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum. Modeled on a fifteenth-century Venetian palace, the building houses an impressive collection of American, European and Asian artworks.

Named for the philanthropist Isabella Stewart Gardner, the extraordinary museum was first opened to the public in 1903. While its exquisite architecture and idyllic courtyard garden are already works of art in their own right, its grand galleries are just as exciting to explore.

Alongside masterpieces by Botticelli, Raphael and Rembrandt, you can see ceramics and sculptures. Fine furniture and textiles also feature. Its extensive and eccentric collection covers countless centuries and cultures with amazing Medieval treasures and elaborate Islamic art on show wherever you look.

23. Six Flags New England

A firm favorite with families, Six Flags New England is full of hair-raising rides and rollercoasters for you to enjoy. One of the largest theme parks on the Eastern Seaboard, its innumerable attractions lie just south of Springfield, alongside the Connecticut River.

What started out life in 1870 as a picnic spot with several mechanical rides and a carousel has since slowly morphed into a massive amusement park. In total, Six Flags now boasts more than a hundred thrilling rides and attractions with a large water park and loads of world-class shows also on offer.

Particularly popular are the old wooden Thunderbolt rollercoaster which opened in 1941 and scary Superman The Ride which plummets 221 feet at one point. With food stalls and child-friendly rides dotted about, the park makes for a memorable day out for all the family.

22. Harvard Museum of Natural History

Home to an incredible collection of specimens, the Harvard Museum of Natural History is one of the prestigious university’s most-visited attractions. Situated on its campus in Cambridge, its gigantic red brick building has endless exhibits on the natural world for guests to peruse.

Formed out of three research museums in 1998, its large galleries display everything from dinosaur fossils and meteorites to stuffed animals and tiny invertebrates. While the world’s only mounted 42-foot-long Kronosaurus certainly makes for a striking sight, for many, the thousands of breathtaking Blaschka glass flowers are the museum’s main highlight.

After having seen Triceratops skulls and whale skeletons, you can always walk to the historic Harvard Yard that lies nearby.

21. Historic Deerfield

A fascinating place to visit, Historic Deerfield shines a light on what life was like in New England’s historic villages and countryside. Alongside several galleries and museums, there are about a dozen eighteenth and nineteenth-century houses to explore.

Very well-preserved, its collection of atmospheric old structures lies along a 330-year-old street, just to the north of Northampton. They showcase some fine colonial and Federal-style architecture with fabulous furnishings and period pieces decorating their interiors.

These and the interesting artifacts and exhibits in its visitor center present a comprehensive picture of how people in frontier villages used to live in the past. The historical complex is also noted for its pretty American quilts and the numerous crafts and cooking classes it puts on throughout the year.

20. New England Aquarium

If you’re after some cool sea creatures, then the New England Aquarium is definitely the place to go. A global leader in both ocean exploration and marine conservation, its ginormous tanks and exhibition spaces lie alongside Boston Harbor.

Established in 1969, it now occupies a huge waterfront complex that includes Simons Theater and a whale-watching wharf. While some sections of the aquarium cover temperate and tropical climates, other parts are home to cute African penguins, lazy sea turtles and dozens of species of sharks.

Its main feature however is the Giant Ocean Tank which simulates a colorful Caribbean coral reef. Here visitors can see shimmering shoals of fish and stingrays swirling about with touch tanks full of starfish and horseshoe crabs also scattered about.

19. Chatham Lighthouse

One of Cape Cod’s most famous historical landmarks, the charming Chatham Lighthouse overlooks both the ‘elbow’s’ largest beach and endless Atlantic Ocean. Aside from learning all about its history, you can also enjoy sweeping views over the sea and shore from atop its tall tower.

Watching out over both the nearby North Beach Island and Nantucket Sound, it was erected in 1877 to warn sailors about its perilous shallows and sandbars. While an earlier wooden light on moveable skids was built in the early 1800s, the current one was set further inland to protect it against erosion.

On top of snapping some photos of its bright white exterior and accompanying coast guard station, you can take tours around its interior and hear all about the lives of its lightkeepers.

18. Fenway Park, Boston

As it is known as the ‘Cathedral of Baseball’, the hallowed Fenway Park is well worth a visit even if you aren’t into the sport. Now the home of the Red Sox for well over a century, the iconic, old-style sports stadium is an unforgettable place to catch an action-packed game.

The oldest active ballpark in the MLB, it was completed in 1912 with numerous extensions and renovations also having taken place. Besides ‘The Triangle’ at center field and towering ‘Pesky’s Pole’, its most distinctive feature is the 37-foot-tall left field wall known as the ‘Green Monster’.

Watching the Red Sox play is an intoxicating experience as just under 40,000 fervent fans roar their team to success. As it is one of the state capital’s standout symbols and sights, visiting Fenway Park is a must when in Boston.

17. Shining Sea Bikeway

A wonderful way to see even more of Cape Cod in peace and quiet is to walk, run or cycle along the Shining Sea Bikeway. It takes you right from the ferry terminal in Woods Hole to North Falmouth, passing quaint villages and picturesque nature spots on the way.

Reaching just over ten miles in length, the multipurpose path was opened in 1975 atop what was once an old dilapidated railway line. Its name is a reference to a line from the patriotic song America the Beautiful which was written by Katherine Lee Bates, a Cape Cod native.

As you cycle slowly along the scenic and serene route, you’ll pass salt marshes, cranberry bogs and beaches and enjoy some epic views over Buzzards Bay.

16. Tanglewood Concerts, Lenox

Each summer, the Boston Symphony Orchestra decamps to the tiny town of Lenox where it puts on a series of world-class performances known as the Tanglewood Concerts. As renowned conductors, soloists and musicians perform, music lovers flock here from late June through to early September.

Since 1937, the excellent orchestra and all its top talents have descended on western Massachusetts to play amidst the rolling Berkshire Hills. Numerous venues now accommodate them, including the fan-shaped Koussevitzky Music Shed and elegant, wood-decked Seiji Ozawa Hall. Guests can also sit outside on the lawn and listen to the lovely music while taking in the scenery around them.

In addition to its classical concerts, jazz pianists, string quartets and chorus groups all also perform throughout the sunny summer months.

15. Nantucket

As it is lined by dramatic cliffs, quiet coves and sandy beaches, Nantucket is a picture-perfect place to visit. Both an island and town, it lies thirty miles off Cape Cod’s southern coast, with ferries and planes whisking you to its windswept dunes and lonely lighthouses.

Once an important whaling center, its isolated setting saw it become a popular summer destination as early as the 1870s. Although CEOs and celebrities will now find lots of exclusive resorts and golf clubs, plenty of waterfront restaurants and beachside condos cater to families with young ones too.

Aside from basking on the beach and exploring its untouched wild spaces, there are fun watersports such as kayaking and sailing to try. With a charming historic center and some vibrant nightlife also on offer, Nantucket really does have something for everyone to enjoy.

14. Mount Greylock

The highest point in the state, Mount Greylock lies right in its northwest corner, not far from Adams and the borders with both Vermont and New York . Now protected as part of a state park, it has some spellbinding scenery and views for you to enjoy with hiking trails weaving their way here and there.

Towering 3,489 feet in total, the mighty mount looms over the surrounding area with the Bay State’s only sub-alpine forest coating its slopes. Over seventy miles of trails take you through its gorgeous old-growth woods while both the Veterans War Memorial Tower and a broadcast tower protrude up from its peak.

From its lofty summit, you can see into five states and even ski back down the Thunderbolt Trail during the snowy winter months.

13. Old Sturbridge Village

Another brilliant place to visit if you want to learn about life in Massachusetts in the early 1800s is Old Sturbridge Village in the south-center of the state. The largest living history museum in all of New England, its costumed interpreters and live arts demonstrations certainly transport you back in time.

Set just outside of the small town of the same name, its sprawling site encompasses everything, from small houses and shops to water-powered mills and a working blacksmith. These are divided into the Center Village, Countryside and Mill Neighborhood with each of its forty structures providing a fresh look into a particular part of the past.

As you stroll about town, you can enter old farmhouses and outbuildings and see antique tools and artisan techniques used in centuries gone by.

12. Whale Watching from Gloucester

As Gloucester is regularly listed among the best places in the world to go whale watching, it would be amiss to visit and not take a trip out to see the majestic creatures. From the coastal city of Cape Ann, you can visit both Stellwagen Bank and Jeffrey’s Ledge; two of their main feeding grounds.

Numerous tour companies run excursions out to see the whales who migrate here each year to feast on the area’s abundant natural resources. Between May and October, visitors can expect to spot not just giant humpbacks and massive blue whales but smaller pilot whales, porpoises and dolphins too.

As sightings are almost guaranteed, the mouth of Massachusetts Bay is one of the best places to see them other than the far-flung reaches of the globe such as Antarctica, Alaska and Patagonia.

11. Cape Cod National Seashore

Protecting almost the entirety of the Outer Cape’s Atlantic Ocean coastline is the Cape Cod National Seashore. Sure to delight nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike, it boasts beautiful beaches and dunes with scenic woods, ponds and seaside villages tucked here and there.

Lying between Provincetown and Eastham, it was established in 1961 by President John F. Kennedy to preserve its pristine landscapes, scenery and nature. As well as high coastal cliffs and heathlands, there are expansive swamps and salt marshes to explore alongside six historic lighthouses and some smallish museums.

Besides hiking and cycling along its paths, you can lounge on the beach and swim and splash about in its shallows. You can also learn more about its interesting history and ecosystems at the national seashore’s two visitor centers.

10. Minute Man National Historical Park

Commemorating the opening battle in the American Revolutionary War is the Minute Man National Historical Park just outside Concord. Here you can see the exact route marched by the British from Boston and where the Colonials first engaged them in battle on April 19, 1775.

At the historic park, visitors can cross over North Bridge – the site of the skirmish – and walk along the ‘Battle Road Trail’. Restored colonial buildings, such as Barrett’s Farm and Hartwell Tavern, help highlight key figures and events while uniforms and artifacts are shown in its visitor center.

Park rangers are on-hand to teach you about the start of the American Revolution and reenactments take place every now and again. Don’t forget to stop by the Wayside house too as it was home to the noted authors Nathaniel Hawthorne, Louisa May Alcott and Margaret Sidney.

9. Museum of Fine Arts, Boston

Home to a staggering array of artworks from all around the world, the much-loved Museum of Fine Arts can be found in Boston’s Fenway-Kenmore neighborhood. Long one of Boston’s major tourist attractions , its galleries occupy a fabulous neoclassical building overlooking Back Bay Fens park.

Founded in 1870, its collection now consists of over 450,000 artifacts and art pieces with Asian and Persian fine arts displayed next to ancient Egyptian mummies and masterpieces by European artists. The museum is particularly known for its awesome Art of the Americas wing which showcases both pre-Columbian and colonial-era art.

As works by big names like Goya, Monet and Rembrandt feature alongside impressionist paintings and contemporary pieces, it is no wonder it is one of the most-visited museums on the planet.

8. Crane Beach, Ipswich

Lying alongside the enormous Ipswich Bay is one of the most spectacular stretches of sand in the state. Backed by delightful dunes and maritime forests, Crane Beach makes for quite the sight with divine views over the ocean also being on offer.

Protected as part of a conservation site, its sparkling shores stretch more than four miles with a quiet boardwalk taking you through the idyllic area’s untouched sand dunes and salt marshes. Bathrooms and showers are scattered about while a snack stand operates in the summer.

Other than hiking amidst its sublime scenery, you can paddle about in its clean, calm waters and top up your tan on the beach. Afterwards, you can check out the adjacent Crane Estate which contains landscaped gardens and a marvelous English-style mansion.

7. Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum

For those interested in learning more about the history of the States, the brilliantly done Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum are an absolute must. Through thrilling re-enactments and other immersive experiences, you’ll hear all about the important 1773 protest that so shaped the future of the nation.

Situated just south of the city center, its bright red buildings lie on Congress Street Bridge with two replicas of eighteenth-century ships bobbing about Griffin’s Wharf. Along with interactive exhibits and multimedia installations, they present a comprehensive view of the exciting events surrounding the Boston Tea Party and what the Sons of Liberty achieved that day.

In addition to touring around the Eleanor and Beaver and meeting some colonists onboard, you can toss tea into the harbor yourself and watch life-like holograms discuss the impactful protests.

6. Martha’s Vineyard

Long a popular holiday hotspot for the rich and famous, the magnificent Martha’s Vineyard lies just to the south of Cape Cod. Although artists, celebrities and even presidents have all vacationed here over the years, New England’s largest island still has a laidback feel and lots of picturesque scenery.

Nicknamed ‘Hollywood East’ due to its often affluent clientele, the peaceful isle has six small towns and miles and miles of beaches for you to explore. Plenty of boutique hotels and fine restaurants are also dotted about while a pretty patchwork of farms and fields coats its countryside.

Aside from relaxing at its upscale resorts and retreats, holidaymakers can enjoy all kinds of outdoor activities. As you hike or kayak about, you’ll see scenic sights such as Oak Bluffs’ cosy cottages and the Gay Head Cliffs, all while basking in the Vineyard’s epic views over the ocean.

5. Norman Rockwell Museum, Stockbridge

For the last 25 years of his life, the esteemed American artist Norman Rockwell lived and painted in the Berkshires. Since 1969, an outstanding museum just outside of Stockbridge has shone a light on his considerable talents with a thousand of his paintings, drawings and personal items now on show.

Overlooking the Housatonic River Valley, the museum’s bright white building now hosts the largest and most significant collection of original Norman Rockwell works in the world. He is perhaps best known for his portrayal of everyday American life in small towns and for his various artworks that represent the United States’ ideals.

Highlights include his countless iconic covers for the Saturday Evening Post and a moving series of paintings known as the Four Freedoms. Based on Franklin D. Roosevelt’s famous 1941 State of the Union speech, these depict essential human rights that should be protected.

4. Faneuil Hall Marketplace

Right in the historic heart of Boston is one of the capital’s standout sights: the fantastic Faneuil Hall Marketplace. Most known for the role it played during the American Revolution, the huge historical brick building now acts as a shopping center and is synonymous with world-class street performers.

Now part of a large complex encompassing scores of shops and the lively Quincy Market food hall, it is often referred to as the ‘Cradle of Liberty’. This is because it is here that the lawyer James Otis coined the rallying cry ‘no taxation without representation’ in 1764 while encouraging independence from Great Britain.

As you stroll amidst its unique boutiques and restaurants, you can take in the area’s attractive old architecture and enjoy some of the marketplace’s superb musicians and street performers.

3. Plimoth Patuxet Museums

If you want to delve even deeper into the country’s captivating past, make sure to schedule time for a visit to the Plimoth Patuxet Museums. Its costumed interpreters and recreated buildings transport you back in time to a seventeenth-century English Village and Native American Patuxet Homesite.

Located just down the coast from Plymouth, the large living history museum was previously known as Plimouth Plantation as it replicated the Pilgrims’ original 1627 settlement. In recent years, it was renamed and expanded with a Wampanoag Village now also depicting how Native Americans lived both before and after the colonists’ arrival.

While wandering around the expansive site, you’ll learn about the lives and cultures of the Pilgrims and Patuxet and watch them go about their daily tasks. There is also a full-scale reproduction of the Mayflower II to explore that covers the colonists’ historic voyage across the Atlantic.

2. Salem’s Historic Houses

While the whole state is awash with interesting historic sights, not many places in New England can rival those of Salem. One of the most important ports in early American history, it boasts hundreds of beautiful old buildings that shine a light on various parts of its centuries-old history and culture.

Most famed for the Salem Witch Trials that shook the seaside community in 1692, it was founded in 1626 along the sheltered Salem Harbor. The town later played a prominent role during the American Revolutionary War and thrived thanks to the hugely profitable Old China Trade. Its many museums, well-preserved buildings and historic districts now help reveal these different parts of its past.

The House of Seven Gables, for instance, is immortalized in Nathaniel Hawthorne’s novel while the Witch House is the only remaining building connected to the trials. Other popular places to visit are the Peabody Essex Museum houses and Salem Maritime National Historic Site which preserves the city’s waterfront.

1. Freedom Trail

Meandering its way through the center of Boston, the Freedom Trail takes you past many of its most important Revolutionary War sites. Its churches, graveyards and colonial buildings recount the story of the critical events and crucial figures that paved the way for American independence.

Marked by both red bricks and paint, the historic walking tour stretches 2.5 miles in total and begins at Boston Common; the oldest park in the country. Divided into sections, it first looks at revolution and revolt before culminating at the battle of Bunker Hill and the USS Constitution which was built to protect the fledgling nation.

On the way, you’ll see the Old State House which was the site of the infamous Boston Massacre and Faneuil Hall where people protested against the imposition of taxes on the colonies. As it passes so many renowned landmarks, the Freedom Trail is certainly not to be skipped when traveling around the state.

Map of Things to Do in Massachusetts

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15 Best Places to Visit in Massachusetts — Fun & Unique Places to Go!

By: Author Stefan Meyer

Posted on Published: June 20, 2021  - Last updated: May 30, 2023

Massachusetts may be one of the smallest states in the U.S., but it holds an endless array of fun possibilities.

Nicknamed the Bay State, it rests on the banks of the North Atlantic Ocean and is the ideal place for you to go on a long-awaited getaway.

Here, you can do things like roam through charming streets, spend time at the beach, go shopping for antiques, explore historic sites, discover the various galleries at a museum, have a blast doing countless water sports, visit nearby islands, and so much more.

So, gather your travel buddies and have a fantastic vacation by exploring some of the best places to visit in Massachusetts, as shown on the list I made just for your convenience.

1. Plum Island — Newburyport

Plum Island Newburyport, MA 01950

Plum Island is an island barrier running for roughly 18 kilometers long.

It is a premier beach spot for its miles of pristine shoreline.

Why You Should Visit This Place

Are you searching for what to do in Massachusetts to jet-start your unforgettable vacation?

If you are, pack your swimsuit and sunblock and make your way to Plum Island.

At this picture-perfect destination, you can spend a laid-back and relaxing day trip sprawled on a sandy beach or do fun activities.

Like swimming, hiking through nature trails, eating fresh seafood at a local restaurant , taking in the glorious sunset views, and dine at a beachfront cafe.

An Expert Tip Before You Go

If you are looking for a place to buy alcoholic beverages, souvenir items, groceries, or withdraw cash, stop by the Cottage Island Market and Spirits.

2. The Berkshires — Sandisfield

The Berkshires Sandisfield, MA 01245

You can find the Berkshires in the western region of Massachusetts, perched on its breathtaking mountaintops.

Go on a magnificent nature escape by exploring beautiful places to visit near you, like the Berkshires.

It is the ideal destination for you to get away from crowded cities and colossal skyscrapers and enjoy the bliss and serenity of the great outdoors.

Take in the beautiful scenery of this rural mountain region as you enjoy a boat-load of activities.

For example, kayaking, canoeing, golfing, whitewater rafting, horseback riding, swimming in a pristine lake, camping, hiking, and the like.

In cold winter months, you and your companions can enjoy cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and other fun options.

A must-visit attraction on your getaway is the Berkshire HorseWorks.

It is a renowned equestrian facility.

It allows for the ultimate horseback riding experience alongside well-trained, friendly horses.

It also offers lessons if you want to learn how.

Related: Best Things to Do in Massachusetts

3. Northampton

Northampton, MA 01060 (413) 587- 4900

Northampton, nicknamed the Paradise City, is a well-loved tourist destination, offering the perfect blend of culture, nature, delicious cuisine, history, and art.

There are many beautiful and terrific places to travel in Massachusetts, such as the picturesque Northampton.

It’s lovely streets feature a myriad of shops, art galleries, museums, scenic parks, and restaurants, backed by stunning mountain views.

Some of the attractions you can visit are the Smith College Museum of Art, featuring more than 25,000 pieces of artwork, Thornes Marketplace, where you can enjoy the ultimate shopping spree, and the Academy of Music Theatre, offering enthralling local productions.

The Botanic Garden of Smith College is one of the top places of interest that Northampton has to offer.

Don’t leave the city without exploring this botanical garden and its many awe-striking features, like a conservatory and a greenhouse containing at least 2,500 plant species.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Springfield Northampton/Amherst

4. Martha’s Vineyard — Vineyard Haven

Martha’s Vineyard Vineyard Haven, MA 02568

Martha’s Vineyard is a breathtakingly gorgeous island just a few miles offshore.

It is a popular summer destination, beckoning visitors from all over the country.

If you are in search of places to go in Massachusetts for an amazing vacation that you and your friends or family will never forget, Martha’s Vineyard is the ideal choice.

On this island, you can do things like shopping for antiques, viewing masterpieces at an art gallery, lazing on a sandy beach, chartering a boat to go on a peaceful cruise, fishing, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, booking a guided tour of the area, and exploring historic lighthouses.

You can find a plethora of coastlines on this island.

Choose Oak Bluffs Town Beach if you want a more family-friendly option and Katama Beach if you prefer to spend the day out in the water, riding the waves on your surfboard.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Charles and Charles MV

Related: Best Places to Eat in Martha’s Vineyard

Related: Best Beaches in Massachusetts

Boston, MA 02201 (617) 973-8500

Boston is the capital city of Massachusetts, famous for its delicious food , thrilling sports games, and historical attractions.

Boston is one of the best cities to visit in Massachusetts, offering you an endless range of recreational possibilities for you and your loved ones, significant others, or friends.

It has many fun-filled tourist hotspots catering to your every desire.

Like Fenway Park, a world-famous sports complex, the New England Aquarium, which is home to more than 20,000 animals representing over 550 species, the Symphony Hall, where you can watch a symphony orchestra, and so much more.

Whether you are traveling with your family and looking for something fun to do or want to share a romantic moment with your beloved, a top activity you should do is riding the Swan Boats at the Boston Common.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Encore Boston Harbor

Related: Weekend Getaways in Massachusetts

6. Nantucket

Nantucket, MA 02554

Nantucket is a small island about 300 miles off the shores of Cape Cod.

It is a renowned summer colony and tourist attraction.

Experience the best of Massachusetts by bonding with your friends on a fantastic vacation together at Nantucket.

Prepare to have a grand time as you do activities like spending the day sprawled on a sandy shoreline, sipping a pint of beer at a brewery, exploring the historic lighthouses, going on a fishing excursion, whale watching, sailing, watching a ballet at a theater, and so on.

Nantucket welcomes hundreds of thousands of tourists during the summer season.

If you want to avoid excessively large crowds, opt for other months.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: White Elephant Hotel

Related: Good Places to Eat in Nantucket

Salem, MA 01970 (978) 740-1650

Salem is an internationally-famed coastal city because of the witch trials that occurred here in 1692.

Take your friends, family, or partner on a vacation they will remember for years to come by having a terrific time exploring Salem.

It is one of the top Massachusetts tourist attractions, offering you a boat-load of fascinating and enjoyable places to visit.

Destinations you visit are the House of the Seven Gables, a historic house museum constructed in 1668, the Peabody Essex Museum, exhibiting more than 840,000 art pieces, and Salem Willows Park, featuring kid-friendly rides, sports courts, beaches, an arcade, and more.

Bewitched After Dark Walking Tours is an award-winning tour experience you have to try before leaving.

You can go on a tour alongside a knowledgeable historian and learn how it became the Witch City as you explore the city.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Salem Waterfront Hotel & Suites

Related: Best Places to Eat in Salem

Related: Best Waterpark Hotels in Massachusetts

8. Cape Cod — Hyannis

Hyannis, MA 02601 (508) 362-3225

Cape Cod is a picture-perfect, hook-shaped cape lined with seafood shacks, charming beaches, waterfront attractions, top-rated resorts, and more.

Are you searching for spectacular vacation spots to unwind and take a break from your busy city life? If you are, make your way to this magnificent cape.

Discover at least 83 different museums, over 559 miles of stunning shoreline, wildlife sanctuaries ideal for birdwatching, more than 50 golf courses catering to every skill level, scenic trails for different purposes, kid-friendly places for your little ones, and tons more.

For a more relaxing time, sign up for an excursion with the Bay Spirit Tours.

Depending on the tour you book, it includes sailing on the water as you go wine tasting, listening to live music, watching an awe-inspiring sunset, and so on.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Anchor In Distinctive Waterfront Lodging

Related: Best Things to Do in Hyannis, MA

Related: Best Places to Eat in Cape Cod

Related: Best Restaurants in Hyannis

9. New Bedford

New Bedford, MA 02740 (508) 979-1400

New Bedford , nicknamed the Whaling City, rests on the shores of Buzzards Bay.

It served as the primary setting for the internationally acclaimed novel Moby Dick.

Haven’t made up your mind on what to do and where to go in Massachusetts?

Then drive on over to New Bedford.

Some of the activities you can do here are chartering boats, learning about whaling history at a museum, observing animals at a zoo, enjoying a glass of fine wine, appreciating masterful pieces at an art gallery, exploring antique shops, and tons more.

A must-visit location you should tour on your visit to this city is the New Bedford Whaling Museum, founded in 1903.

It boasts an impressive collection of more than 750,000 items for you to view with your travel buddies.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Fairfield Inn and Suites by Marriott New Bedford

Related: Best Places to Eat in New Bedford

10. Wingaersheek Beach — Gloucester

Wingaersheek Beach Gloucester, MA 01930

Wingaersheek Beach, featuring 0.6 miles of breathtaking shoreline, is one of the most popular sites for beachgoers.

When searching for cheap and fun places to visit to enjoy an epic beach trip with your family and friends, this jaw-droppingly beautiful coastline is a superb choice.

It is the ideal beach for you to create long-lasting memories as you spend quality time together.

Like, helping your kids make sandcastles, taking plenty of photos together, relaxing on the shore while sunbathing, swimming in the gentle water, having a beachfront picnic, and many others.

If you are planning to take your furry friends along for the ride, visit on odd-numbered days from October 1 to June 30.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Beauport Hotel Gloucester

Related: Best Things to Do in Gloucester, MA

Related: Where to Eat in Gloucester

11. Watatic Mountain State Wildlife Area — Ashburnham

Watatic Mountain State Wildlife Area Ashburnham, MA 01430

The Watatic Mountain State Wildlife Area is a rugged mountain top tourist hotspot offering miles of rugged hiking trails.

Enjoy a fantastic retreat in the great outdoors by going to one of the top places to visit in Massachusetts, the Watatic Mountain State Wildlife Area.

At this haven for nature lovers, you can hike through different trails of varying difficulties through breathtaking landscapes, like towering trees, fields of wildflowers, and more.

The Mount Watatic Trail, about 3.5 kilometers long, is the best option if you are a beginner hiker or hiking with your children.

The ideal time to hike this trail is from April to September.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Colonial Hotel

12. Cambridge

Cambridge, MA 02139 (617) 349-4000

Cambridge , founded in 1630, is a renowned city and often ranks as one of the best places to live in the state.

It is home to some of the best schools in the U.S., like the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard University.

One of the top places to see in Massachusetts on your exploration of the state is this postcard-perfect city.

It is a mecca for tourists, offering you a multitude of attractions, like a wide range of eateries serving local and international cuisine , many boutique shops, enthralling theaters, awe-inspiring historical sites, family-friendly parks, countless art, science, and history museums, and more.

Before heading home, make sure to explore Harvard Square.

It is a triangular plaza offering various retail shops, cafes, benches where you can rest your feet, nearby hotels, and so on.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hyatt Regency Boston/Cambridge

13. Museum of Fine Arts — Boston

465 Huntington Ave Boston, MA 02115 (617) 267-9300

The Museum of Fine Arts is one of the largest art museums on the planet.

It features a whopping collection of more than 450,000 pieces of artwork that draws in millions of visitors each year.

Do you have an art appreciation?

Do you love looking through artful masterpieces?

If you do, make a stop at this magnificent museum.

Here, you can view things like paintings from medieval Europe, artwork by world-famous artists, such as Claude Monet, Japanese pieces, Chinese calligraphy, Ancient Egyptian artifacts, like sarcophagi and jewelry, and so much more.

You can also do activities like listening to a fascinating lecture, attending a class or workshop to learn something new, watching an art film, and the like.

The Museum of Fine Arts is the perfect destination to visit if you are vacationing with someone who has a physical disability.

It offers wheelchairs for rent and special tour programs for those with sight and hearing impairments.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: InterContinental Boston, an IHG Hotel

14. Old Sturbridge Village — Sturbridge

1 Old Sturbridge Village Rd Sturbridge, MA 01566 (800) 733-1830

The Old Sturbridge Village is a living museum recreating life in New England from the late 18th century to the early 19th century.

The Old Sturbridge Village is a must-visit for history buffs, offering you a memorable experience where you can travel back in time to the 1790s.

Go on a tour alongside a guide in period-appropriate clothing as you explore its many features.

Some of the activities you can enjoy are watching costumed interpreters do agricultural work, make arts and crafts, and so on.

It also features various exhibits where you can learn all about rural New England and how the people then lived their day-to-day lives.

The best time to visit this historical attraction when traveling with your children is during the summertime.

During this season, it offers a myriad of activities for kids aged 6 to 14.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Holiday Inn Express & Suites – Sturbridge, an IHG Hotel

15. Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum — Boston

25 Evans Way Boston, MA 02115 (617) 566-1401

The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, established in 1903, is one of the best places to visit in Massachusetts.

It features a collection of artwork from all over the globe, like Asia and Europe.

There are many cool and unique places to visit in Massachusetts, such as this spectacular art museum.

It is home to many dazzling pieces of varying forms, like tapestries, paintings, sculptures, decorative arts, ceramics, artifacts, musical instruments, and many other options.

To enjoy a more educational experience and to get the chance to learn more about its stunning galleries, you can opt to sign up for a tour with a charismatic guide.

If you want to enjoy a more personal and private experience, explore the museum with the help of an audio guide.

It comes in five different languages and offers an immersive time as you listen to museum stories.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Fairmont Copley Plaza

Massachusetts Places to Visit: The 15 Best Places to Go for [currentyear]

• Plum Island — Newburyport
• The Berkshires — Sandisfield
• Northampton
• Martha’s Vineyard — Vineyard Haven
• Cape Cod — Hyannis
• New Bedford
• Wingaersheek Beach — Gloucester
• Watatic Mountain State Wildlife Area — Ashburnham
• Museum of Fine Arts — Boston
• Old Sturbridge Village — Sturbridge
• Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum — Boston

Home » Travel Guides » United States » Massachusetts (MA) » 17 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Massachusetts

17 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Massachusetts

Massachusetts , also known as The Bay State, The Old Colony State, The Puritan State and The Baked Bean State, has a lot to see and explore. Have a look of these awesome pictures of places to visit!

1. Rockport

Rockport is one of the most beautifully charming towns in the state of Massachusetts. Located right at the tip of the Cape Ann peninsula, north-east of Boston , Rockport is a popular tourist spot. Many miles of soft sand beaches attract people to the town, which also has some of the best hikes in this part of the United States. Rockport’s coastal locale means it is ideal for kayaking and scuba diving, but many visitors will just want to kick back and relax in this stunning place.

2. Atlantic White Cedar Swamp Trail

Hiking down the Atlantic White Cedar Swamp Trail is an ideal leisure activity on a hot Massachusetts day. Based around the site of a former US Army base, Cape Wellfleet, the trail is home to a wide range of forest birds. At the end of the walk is the Marconi Station Site, which provides a fantastic place to look out across the Atlantic Ocean, with unforgettable views and a perfect photo opportunity. The trail is flat, making it easy for beginners, and just over a mile long.

3. Sturbridge

Sturbridge is one of the most historic towns in Massachusetts and visiting it is like stepping back in time. Unique boutiques and antique shops are easy to spend hours exploring, while the living museum at Old Sturbridge Village is a must-visit too, where costumed guides give tourists a taste of life in the 19th century. Just outside Sturbridge itself is Wells State Park, which boasts a gorgeous pond where canoeing and swimming is permitted. Sturbridge is one of the best spots in Massachusetts to experience old-fashioned New England charm.

4. North Point Park

Cambridge itself is one of the most beautiful places in Massachusetts, but visitors who want to experience the best the city has to offer should head to North Point Park. Located on the Charles River, the park has only been open for a few years but has already become a very popular spot. The Zakim Bridge and the Museum of Science are among the sights that can be seen from the vantage point within the park’s grounds. A beautiful place to while away a quiet afternoon.

5. Cohasset

Cohasset might just the quintessential New England town, with its picture perfect sights drawing many tourists every year. But Cohasset is probably best known for its numerous superb beaches, many of which have been kept private to be enjoyed by local residents. Sandy Beach, known as the Jewel in the Crown in Cohasset, is open to the public – although visitors need to be accompanied by a resident. The vintage carousel and arcades at Nantasket Beach are well worth a visit too, while Cohasset’s other attractions include the white clock tower at the beautiful First Parish Meeting House.

6. Cape Cod

Cape Cod is one of the romantic places in the United States, drawing countless tourists to Massachusetts every summer. Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket are among the most picturesque locations in the world, with Cape Cod’s mix of superb cuisine, gorgeous beaches and conservation spots making it an ideal holiday location. Cape Cod Bay is ideal for those seeking peace and quiet, while Falmouth and Provincetown tend to be busier, with lively nightlife options.

7. Hammond Castle

Hammond Castle, found in Gloucester , was the home of one of the great American inventors, John Hays Hammond Jr, who was at the forefront of developing remote control technology. Today, the castle is home to a museum that displays Roman, medieval, and Renaissance artifacts collected by Hammond himself, while every October to mark Halloween the castle hosts a haunted house tour. Self-guided tours allow visitors to explore the castle themselves.

8. Bartholomew’s Cobble

A National Natural Landmark, Bartholomew’s Cobble is without a doubt one of the most beautiful places to visit in Massachusetts. The highest point of the Cobble – which was created by geological upheavals – provides amazing views across the Housatonic River Valley. There are five miles of trails to try out and the most challenging of them is up to the Hurlburt’s Hill summit. The interpretive center and museum at Bartholomew’s Cobble are also well worth checking out.

9. Townsend, Massachusetts

• Townsend, Massachusetts

10. Palmer Island Light Station

Palmer Island is home to one of the most historic lighthouses in America. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Palmer Island Light Station can be found at the northern point of Palmer’s Island in New Bedford Harbor. After undergoing an extensive refurbishment project, the Palmer Island Light Station is being used once more, now as a private aid to navigation.

11. Martha’s Vineyard

Martha’s Vineyard is probably the most famous tourist location in the state and it is the jewel of the improbably gorgeous Cape Cod region. Typically referred to simply as The Vineyard, it takes a bit of an effort to reach but it is well worth the trip. The ferry to Martha’s Vineyard can be a rough ride, but the difficult journey is all part of the charm of the tiny island. Sunsets on The Vineyard are particularly beautiful, with the East Chop Lighthouse in Oak Bluffs one of the best places on the island to watch the sun go down. The beautiful small towns of Chilmark and Aquinnah are also worth visiting for anyone who wants to see Martha’s Vineyard at its most authentic and unspoiled.

12. Fall in Massachusetts

Fall is perhaps the best time of the year to explore Massachusetts as this is when the Bay State looks at its finest. The beautiful river valleys that are dotted all over the state are ideal places to watch the leaves steadily change colour and drop from the trees. The Central region of Massachusetts and the Berkshire Mountains are the best places to experience fall in Massachusetts, while Route 2, otherwise known as the Mohawk Trail, is a must-visit.

13. Provincetown

Provincetown has a tiny population in the off-season, but in the summer months as many as 60,000 people live in this gorgeous New England town. Sometimes referred to as P-town or P’town, the LGBTQ community particularly adore Provincetown because of its laid-back, accepting, relaxed feel. The Atlantic House in Provincetown is regarded as the oldest gay bar in the whole of the States, while many of Cape Cod’s best beaches are also located here, with Race Point Beach and Herring Cove Beach particularly highly recommended.

14. Plimoth Plantation

Anyone interested in history should make time to spend a day at the Plimoth Plantation living museum, which gives visitors the chance to experience what life was like in the 17th century. Among the most interesting of the attractions at the museum is a re-creation of a Wampanoag home site, where Native People explain all about how the Wampanoag’s ancestors lived. The museum is also home to the Mayflower II, which is docked near the purported Plymouth Rock. The incredible ship is among the world’s oldest wooden vessels that still sails.

15. Old State House, Boston

Boston’s Old State House is one of the oldest surviving public buildings in the United States. Dating back more than 400 years, the building – sometimes known as Boston’s Towne House – is now run as a Boston history museum by the Bostonian Society. The Old State House is among the landmarks on Boston’s Freedom Trail and visiting is a must for anyone who wants to learn more about the colonial history of the country. Most famously, The Declaration of Independence was made from the balcony of Boston’s Old State House.

16. Longfellow’s Wayside Inn

The Wayside Inn claims to be the oldest operating inn in the country, with the building featuring a mix of British colonial and Greek Revivalist architecture. The inn dates back 400 years and one of its key features is the ancient grist mill outside. The last private owner of the Wayside Inn was Henry Ford, who wanted to develop the site into a historically oriented village and museum. The inn remains open as a restaurant and guests can even stay over in historically accurate rooms.

Farm, Carlisle, MA

17 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Massachusetts:

• Atlantic White Cedar Swamp Trail
• North Point Park
• Hammond Castle
• Bartholomew's Cobble
• Palmer Island Light Station
• Martha's Vineyard
• Fall in Massachusetts
• Provincetown
• Plimoth Plantation
• Old State House, Boston
• Longfellow's Wayside Inn

New England Wanderlust

Fall , Massachusetts  ·  June 16, 2023

Fall In Massachusetts Ultimate Guide: 35 Things To Do & Places To Visit! (2024)

What I love about fall in Massachusetts is the amazing variety of things to do. Whether you’re looking for epic fall foliage, an off-season trip to the coast, breathtaking mountain views, or a cozy getaway in the woods – Massachusetts has you covered. Not to mention, it’s home to the most exciting Halloween destination in New England – Salem!

This post is my round-up of all the best places for fall foliage in Massachusetts, and the best things to do in autumn to celebrate this wonderful season. So, what are we waiting for? Let’s start planning your perfect fall getaway to Massachusetts!

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Best Time To See Fall Foliage In Massachusetts

First thing’s first, if you’re looking for the best fall foliage in Massachusetts, you’ll need to know when to plan your visit. The short answer is – it depends, but generally the beginning of October is a safe bet for most places in Massachusetts.

For places like The Berkshires, you’ll want to plan your trip around the first week of October to try and see peak foliage, and for places around the central part of the state, the second week of October is ideal.

For places like Boston, and the North Shore region, including Salem, mid-October is typically prime foliage season, and it can sometimes last through the beginning of November in these areas.

As always in all my fall posts, I like to mention that peak foliage times are never guaranteed from year to year. It’s all based on weather and temperatures throughout the year, and it can vary a bit. So these timelines are general suggestions.

Best Places To See Fall Foliage In Massachusetts

While there are more places all over the state to see amazing fall foliage, this list is my narrowed down, best-of-the-best when it comes to the most bang for your buck in terms of seeing fall color. In no particular order, here’s where I suggest you go while leaf-peeping in Massachusetts:

1. The Berkshires

An iconic mountain region in the northwestern part of the state, The Berkshires is home to absolutely incredible fall foliage, and makes my list of the best places to visit in New England . But on top of that, it’s also a great destination for charming towns, quiet getaways, hiking, nature, and impressive restaurants. If you’re looking for a fall getaway in nature, this is the place to go.

The Berkshires also has some absolutely wonderful places to stay to make your getaway even more memorable. You can either book a cozy cabin in the woods, or stay at a variety of inns and B&B’s, ranging from traditional and homey, to modern and Instagram-worthy.

Some notable things to check out in The Berkshires in the fall season are:

• The Mount Greylock summit, which you can drive to, or hike up
• The Mohawk Trail scenic drive (more on both of these later, though!)
• Drive Route 7 from Williamstown to Sheffield
• Hilltop Orchards for cider
• Field Farm in Williamstown
• The Ashuwillticook Rail Trail

Check out the “Where To Stay” section at the end for my recommendations on the best places to stay in The Berkshires!

2. Sturbridge

One of my favorite small towns in Massachusetts to visit in the fall season is Sturbridge. Honestly, Sturbridge is charming year-round, but winter, and especially fall, are simply magical here.

The biggest attraction in Sturbridge is Old Sturbridge Village, which is a recreation of a New England town in the 1830s, and spans over 200 acres. You’ll find a covered bridge here, historic homes, and plenty of fall color to go around. For a peek at what New England life was like in the early 1800s, this is such a wonderful experience to have (even if you’re not a history buff!).

But outside of Old Sturbridge Village, you’ll find lots of small-town charm, and you can spend the afternoon sipping on craft beer at Altruist Brewing, grabbing a fun lunch at Sawdust Coffee & Dessert Bar, and enjoying all the bright foliage at every turn.

Sturbridge makes for an easy day trip, or a wonderful weekend/overnight getaway.

3. Deerfield

Much like Sturbridge, Deerfield is another quaint town exploding with fall color in autumn. You can also step back in time here and visit the Historic Deerfield museum, which is home to historic buildings, and feels especially charming in the fall. Some of the houses are decorated with giant pumpkins and gourds, which is really fun to see (and also makes for the quintessential New England photo!).

Just 10 minutes outside of Deerfield, you can also visit Poet’s Seat Tower in Greenfield , which is spectacular in the fall season. You can hike or drive up, and once you arrive at the top, you’re greeted with an awesome bird’s eye view of the area dripping in fall color.

Famous for Louisa May Alcott, Walden Pond, and ties to the Revolutionary War, Concord is such a quaint little place that’s filled with serene things to do, and you guessed it … fall foliage. You’ll find lots of historic homes here as well, which just always makes you feel like you’re in the heart of New England.

Of course, Walden Pond should be at the top of your list for a fall visit. Not only will you find bright fall color surrounding the pond, it’s such a peaceful way to spend a lovely fall afternoon.

Just a few mins away from Concord in the nearby town of Lexington, you’ll also find some very festive fall things to do. The Battle Trail at the Minute Man National Historical Park is wonderful during fall foliage season. And a few minutes from that path, you can head over to Wilson Farms, which is an incredible farm store that’s especially exciting in the fall season.

Fall in Boston is really quite spectacular, especially if it’s a city vibe you’re after. And even though it’s an urban environment, there’s plenty of fall foliage to be had, including at the Public Gardens, Boston Common, and the Charles River Esplanade.

And what I love about autumn in Boston is that it still can feel very homey. The Beacon Hill neighborhood, especially, is filled with picturesque streets worthy of postcards, and stoops decorated with beautiful pumpkin displays.

Since Boston is also in a great location, it’s accessible to most of the places on this list, making it a great starting point for an epic New England fall road trip, or a vacation around Massachusetts in the fall.

6. Newburyport

One destination I don’t think gets enough credit in the fall season (or any season, really!) is Newburyport. I say this every time I mention this great little city, but it’s a place that feels more like a quaint town, and definitely gives you all the Hallmark movie set vibes.

Newburyport has gorgeous fall foliage, especially in its waterfront park, and Maudslay State Park . It’s also home to amazing shopping, dining, and beautiful scenery. During the fall season, they have fun events in town, and also host an awesome Oyster Fest (which I get more into later in the post!).

Between Springfield and The Berkshires, you’ll find the cute little city of Amherst, which is most famous for being the home of poet Emily Dickinson. While you can (and should!) tour her family’s homestead, there are also some really fun fall things to do around the city.

One of the best ways to enjoy fall foliage in Amherst is to bike one of the rail trails, and I especially love the Norwottuck Rail Trail. This 11-mile paved trail is pretty flat, making it great for all skill levels, and takes you over a beautiful bridge offering river views backdropped by foliage, and through other scenic areas.

Another great rail trail nearby is the Manhan Rail Trail, which is Easthampton. This one is also great for foliage color along the path.

Mount Holyoke Range State Park, is another wonderful foliage place to check out in Amherst, and offers plenty of trails to explore for a day out in nature.

You’ll also be able to find all kinds apple orchards nearby in this area, and explore the cute little downtown area for shops and restaurants.

I think Ipswich is another underrated destination in New England, and it also boasts amazing fall color this time of the year. Ipswich is often regarded as a coastal town, but it has such beautiful farm lands and parks to explore, making this a great place to visit in the fall, too. It’s also only about 30 minutes from Salem, if you’re looking for a day trip to take from there.

Two of my favorite places to visit in the fall in Ipswich are Russell Orchards and Appleton Farms, and they’re only 10 minutes apart from one another. Appleton Farms is owned by the Trustees, and is one of the oldest continually-operating farms in the entire country. Here, you’ll find picturesque rural scenery that’s worthy of a postcard, and miles of walking trails that are ablaze with fall color. They also have a cute little farm store to shop from before you leave.

Russell Orchards is part winery and part farm store, and 100% worth a stop! In the fall season, you can pick your own apples, and get some cider doughnuts from their bakery. They also have all kinds of fall treats and decorations available, like pumpkins, gourds, mums, ice cream and local products. Be sure to swing by their winery for a tasting, too!

Also in Ipswich, you can tour the gorgeous Crane Estate, visit the Wolf Hollow sanctuary, and sip on seasonal crafts brews at True North Ale Company.

9. Quabbin Reservoir – A Hidden Gem!

One foliage spot in Massachusetts that not as many people know about is the Quabbin Reservoir. And man, the fall color here is amazing! This reservoir is the largest body of water in Massachusetts (besides the coastline, of course), and is one of the biggest suppliers of unfiltered water in the entire country.

During your visit, you have access to over 100 miles of scenic trails here that are perfect for walking and biking, as well as awesome overlooks to enjoy the scenery from different perspectives.

Quabbin Reservoir is located pretty much smack dab in the middle of state, so it’s easy to make a day trip here from most places mentioned in this post, or to incorporate into your fall itinerary while touring Massachusetts.

Best Things To Do In The Fall In Massachusetts

Okay, now that we have my favorite fall foliage destinations out of the way, let’s get into all the most fun things to do in Massachusetts in the fall season!

10. Visit Salem In October

I mean, this is a given, right?

Not that it needs an introduction, but I do think that experiencing Salem in October is something everyone in New England should do at least once. I’m not especially big into Halloween (I love fall, but I’m mostly into Halloween for the candy 😉), but even I kind of love Salem during the month of October.

Between spooky ghost tours, the Salem Witch Trials Memorial, Hocus Pocus filming locations, Halloween events during Haunted Happenings, wonderful restaurants, tons more history, and New England charm everywhere, Salem is really the perfect October experience to have in Massachusetts.

Pro Tips About Visiting Salem in October:

• It’s going to be crowded. This was a shock to me the first time I went in October (not sure why, exactly!). But book well in advance, make dining reservations ASAP, and anticipate lots and lots of people everywhere.
• If you’re in Boston, or staying in Boston, I love to recommend this Boston to Salem ferry . It takes less than an hour, and it saves you the hassle of finding parking in Salem. This is especially handy on the weekends.
• Salem fall foliage is usually and its best closer to mid-late October, which perfectly coincides with Halloween festivities!

Psst! I have some helpful guides including planning the perfect Salem, MA day trip , and the best time to visit Salem if you need more information 😉

11. Drive The Mohawk Trail

The Mohawk Trail is one of the most, if not the most, scenic drives in all of Massachusetts during the fall season. Located in The Berkshires region, this drive begins in Williamstown, ends in Greenfield, and spans over 60 miles of gorgeous views.

The drive also stops by some of the best towns to visit in The Berkshires area, including Shelburne Falls and North Adams. And what I love about this drive is that there are so many things to do along the way, including awesome breweries, cideries, coffee places, restaurants, and plenty of scenic overlooks where you’ll want to have your camera ready.

One of the best places for incredible views is the Whitcomb Summit, which is the highest point along the route. Be sure to stop here to take in all the gorgeous fall color!

12. Have A Cozy Cabin Getaway

The Berkshires is also the best destination in Massachusetts for a cozy cabin getaway, which just feels especially perfect once the chilly fall weather sets in. And this region has so many wonderful cabins and places to rent that you’re sure to find the perfect one for you.

Whether you’re hoping for small place that’s a romantic hideaway for two, or a bigger retreat for a family gathering, there’s definitely a little something for everyone.

And with The Berkshires, you’re never too far away from a cute town with great farm-to-table dining, or a relaxing, scenic hike. So, pick whichever house calls to you, and then take things from there.

🍁 Click here to browse the best places for a Berkshires escape in nature!

13. Enjoy The Foliage Views From A Mountain Peak

There are some awesome mountain peaks in Massachusetts that offer incredible views year-round, but are especially epic in the fall season with foliage colors.

The Mount Greylock summit in The Berkshires is one of the best to check out, as it’s the highest point in the entire state. You can choose to either hike to the top, or drive the auto-road up, and from the summit, you can see 90 miles in the distance on a clear day. It’s been a minute since I’ve done this hike, but man, I do remember it as being incredible !

Mount Holyoke is another great summit to experience in the fall, and also offers both an auto road, and hiking trails to get to the top.

14. Stock Up At A Fall Market Or Stand🍁🍎

One of my personal favorite things to do in the fall in New England is visit all the amazing fall markets and stands, and Massachusetts is home to some of the best. Well, every New England state has some pretty great ones, so let’s instead say that Massachusetts is no exception 😉

My two favorites in Massachusetts are Wilson Farms in Lexington, and Cider Hill Farm in Amesbury.

Wilson Farms is easy to visit if you’re planning a trip to Concord or Lexington. This market is open year-round, but in the fall, they place hundreds of pumpkins in crates in front of their main entrance, and just that alone gives you all the fall vibes you’re hoping for. But inside, the market is impressive, and you can spend a lot of time here filling your basket with all kinds of local produce, specialty foods, and goodies.

In Amesbury, Cider Hill Farm is perfect if you’re visiting Newburyport, as it’s only about 15 minutes away. This is a true fall destination, and they have pick your own apples and pumpkins, hard cider, regular cider, cider donuts, an incredible farm store, animals, ice cream and so much more. It’ll be heard to leave!

15. Attend A Farmhouse Wood-Fired Pizza Picnic At Appleton Farms

Remember earlier in the post when I raved about Ipswich being a fun fall destination? Well, their wood-fired pizza picnic events are one of the reasons why! These events actually take place all summer, too, but they continue through all of October, making this something to check out this fall season.

Pack up some lawn chairs and a picnic blanket, throw on your coziest sweater, and head to the farm for some amazing wood-fired pizza. They also offer more yummy foods prepared by the farm’s kitchen. Then, enjoy your hand-crafted pizza overlooking all the beautiful fall colors, and savoring the perfect fall day!

These events take place every Friday, Saturday and Sunday throughout the season, and don’t require any special advanced ticket purchase. Just show up hungry!

16. Experience The Big E

One of the most beloved fairs in the Northeast is The Big E, which takes place mid-September through early October. In fact, it’s the world’s only multi-state fair, so it’s definitely something to experience once in your life.

The Big E has all the fair favorites you can hope for including carnival rides, parades, live music and tons of vendors. This is the perfect way to say goodbye to summer, and hello to the fall season in New England.

17. Take A Haunted Tour

Massachusetts is home to some of the best spooky tours, haunted houses, and famous ghost sightings in the country, so doing some kind of spooky tour should be high on your list when visiting Massachusetts in the fall.

One of the most haunted places in the state that offers tours is the famous Lizzie Borden house in Fall River . You can even book an overnight stay here if you’re brave enough (spoiler alert, I am not 😂). Fall River is also home to the very scary Factory of Terror haunted house, so you can easily visit both for a full night of thrills.

And of course, Boston is home to some of the best haunted tours in the state! Here are a few of the best ones to look into:

• Ghosts & Gravestones Haunted Trolley Tour
• Haunted Ghosts & Pub Walking Tour
• Death & Dying Night Walking Tour

Some super scary haunted houses to check out around Massachusetts are DementedFX, Fear Town, and 13th World Fright Park . But I actually have an entire post that rounds up the scariest haunted houses and places in Massachusetts, so be sure to check out that post at the end of this section.

18. Head To An Apple Orchard, Of Course!

It’s not fall in New England until you’ve visited an apple orchard, and there are tons of them all over Massachusetts that provide the quintessential fall experience!

If you’re visiting The Berkshires region, some great ones to check out are:

• Hilltop Orchards
• Bartlett’s Orchard
• Meadowbrook Orchards

If you’re visiting the central and eastern parts of the state, these are some fun ones to visit:

• Carlson Orchards
• Red Apple Farm
• Brookfield Orchards

19. Enjoy The Foliage Views From The Bridge Of Flowers

In the cute little town of Shelburne Falls in The Berkshires, the Bridge of Flowers is a famous attraction in the spring and summer. And while there isn’t as much in bloom in the fall season, it offers some pretty amazing views of the foliage-covered mountains right from the bridge. In fact, the entire town is another destination for a fun fall day trip or getaway.

And even in the fall, if you time your visit before a big frost, the bridge will still be blooming with some beautiful flowers, including dahlias, rudbeckia, daisies, and even some roses. October is the last month to enjoy blooms on this famous spot, so that’s just another reason to swing by in the fall.

20. Walk Through The Incredible Naumkeag Pumpkin Show

The gorgeous Naumkeag estate in Stockbridge puts on their Incredible Pumpkin Show in the fall season, and it’s most definitely worth checking it out!

Walk through the scenic grounds of the estate, glowing with festive fall displays and illuminated pumpkins. When you first arrive, you’ll see a food and beverage stand selling fun fall drinks (they had spiked apple cider, a fall mimosa, cider donuts, local beer, and non-alcoholic drinks when I was there – plus more!). I recommend grabbing something when you first arrive to enjoy during your walk. There is another beverage stand halfway through the way, too.

Since Stockbridge is such a charming town in The Berkshires, it’s easy to plan an afternoon enjoying Main Street, grab dinner at the famous Red Lion Inn before heading to Naumkeag for the perfect night of fall fun!

Pro Tip : The best time to get your tickets for the show, since it’s timed entry, is about 15-30 minutes before sunset. That way, you can enjoy part of the walk at sunset, and then the rest of it afterward, and enjoy the illuminated displays after dark.

21. Find Your Way Through A Corn Maze

Massachusetts has some pretty amazing corn mazes to check out, and since this is such a time-honored tradition in the fall season, this is one activity that should be on everyone’s radar.

One of the best to check out in the state is the Davis Mega Maze in Sterling . The maze itself is an experience on its own, and spans over 3 miles of trails to get through. It can take anywhere from 30 minutes if your sense of direction is on point, or up to 3 hours!

On top of that, the entire farm is the perfect fall destination, and you’ll find all kinds of activities in the fall season for their Davis Farm Festival including zip lines, awesome food, local beer, live music, and so much more.

Here are some of the best corn mazes in Massachusetts to check out this season:

• Mike’s Maze
• Marini Farm Stand
• Crescent Farms

22. Make Your Own Fall Candle In Rockport

One of the more unique things to do this fall is to make your own candle at Rockport Candle Company. Rockport is one of the most charming coastal towns in New England , and while it’s not a super popular fall destination, it’s special to visit year-round.

And Rockport Candle Company has a very fun DIY Candle Bar experience, where you’re guided through the process of creating your own custom scent, and pouring your own candle. Since so many of us just love a cozy night in with the perfect fall candle, this is one of the coolest things to do this fall.

23. Enjoy The Quiet Coastline

While most people flock to all the best foliage spots around the state in the fall, the Massachusetts shore garners the nickname “the quiet coastline.” Since the coast’s big season is the summer, it mellows out quite a bit after mid-September, and this is a wonderful time to experience the most beautiful parts of the waterfront.

Places like Cape Cod and the Islands are wonderful this time of the year, and you’ll be able to find deals on hotels, and far fewer crowds. While the water will likely be too chilly for a swim, the beaches and coastline are just as beautiful in the fall season as they are in the summer.

For that reason, booking a coastal Massachusetts stay in the fall is a great way to celebrate the season! Order some comforting clam chowder, take a brisk stroll on the beach, enjoy sales at the shops, and hit up the gorgeous nature trails!

24. Tour A Cranberry Bog

Also on Cape Cod, one of the most iconic fall events is cranberry harvest season, and if you time your visit just right, you can watch a cranberry bog harvest.

Cranberry harvest season in this area is late-September through November, and there are a few places that offer bog tours in the fall, including a cranberry farm in Harwich (one of my favorite Cape Cod towns!), and Cape Cod Cranberry Bog Tours in Orleans.

You don’t have to be on Cape Cod to tour a bog, though, and you can also check out A.D. Makepeace Company in Wareham, and Stone Bridge Farm in Acushnet.

25. Take A Scenic Fall Walk Or Hike

Between mountain peaks in The Berkshires, and cool waterfalls to check out, there are so many great hikes in Massachusetts with awesome fall color.

As mentioned earlier, Mount Greylock in The Berkshires is an epic hike if you’re up for climbing the state’s highest peak! The fall color at the summit is truly amazing this time of the year.

But if you’re looking for more, here are some other great hikes to take in the fall:

• Wachusett Mountain State Reservation
• The famous Walden Pond for a relaxing nature walk
• Great Blue Hill (perfect for those near Boston)
• The Cascades Trail in The Berkshires
• Mount Tom State Reservation
• Monument Mountain Reservation
• Bish Bash Falls (the tallest in Massachusetts)

26. Sample All The Pumpkin Brews

Massachusetts is home to some of my all-time favorite breweries, and the fall season is especially wonderful to visit because you can taste what they’re brewing with all the flavors of this cozy season.

My No. 1 favorite brewery in Massachusetts that I just love to visit is Treehouse Brewing, which has locations in Sandwich on Cape Cod, Charlton, and Deerfield. During this time of the year, they’ll often release their “Autumn” Double IPA, which is just 👌🏻

Some other great breweries in Massachusetts to check out this fall are:

• Trillium Brewing in Boston
• Brick and Feather Brewery in Turners Falls
• Greater Good Imperial Brewing Company in Worcester
• Berkshire Brewing Company in South Deerfield
• Jack’s Abby Craft Lagers in Framingham

27. Try The Hard Cider, Too!

I do love a good fall beer, but I’ve recently become more of a hard cider person, especially in the fall season. Massachusetts has some of the coolest cideries in New England to check out.

One of my all-time favorites is Far From The Tree in Salem, MA (perfect place to stop if you’re visiting this fall!). I’m so in love with their Bog cider , which has notes of cranberry, sage, and thyme. It’s honestly just fall in a can, and they only release it in the autumn months.

Some other great cideries in Massachusetts to visit this fall are:

• Hilltop Orchards in The Berkshires
• West County Cider in Shelburne Falls
• Carr’s Ciderhouse – an awesome little hidden gem!
• Ragged Hill Cider Company in West Brookfield
• Common Ground Ciderworks in North Brookfield
• Downeast Cider House in East Boston

28. Watch The Head of the Charles Regatta

One of the most famous events that takes place in the fall season in the Greater Boston region is the Head of the Charles Regatta in Cambridge. Even if you’re not super into rowing, this is still a really fun event to witness because the scenery is beautiful, and anyone can have an appreciation for how tough this sport is. I’m not much of a sports person, but it’s still pretty fun to cheer these guys on!

This event takes place in October each year over the course of 2 days, and it almost always coincides with peak foliage in the area.

29. Squeeze In Your Last Whale Watch Of The Year

October in New England brings the end of whale watching season, and this is the time to squeeze one in before the whales migrate too far south for the rest of the season. And Massachusetts is the best state for whale watching in New England!

Most tours in Massachusetts head out to the Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary, which is a world-renowned whale watching destination. Some great tours to check out before the end of October are:

• Gloucester Whale Watch
• Boston Whale Watch
• Dolphin Fleet Whale Watch From Provincetown
• Newburyport Whale Watch

30. Get Coastal At An Oyster Or Chowder Fest

While the Quiet Coast is a great place for a fall trip for so many reason, I’m going to throw one more out there to further entice you: Seafood Fests!

There are so really awesome seafood fests that take place along the coast this time of the year, and while it’s not necessarily the most “fall” thing to do, it’s definitely a very New England thing to do that often coincides with beautiful, fall weather. And if you love good seafood, this is something you’ll want to have on your radar.

Wellfleet on Cape Cod hosts its annual OysterFest every October, and you’ll find raw bars, craft vendors, and more delicious food during this very fun event. Plus, you’re on Cape Cod – what more could you want? 😉

Newburyport also hosts a wonderful seafood event called Oysterfest in the Port , typically taking place at the end of September each year. During the event, you can sip on local beer and wine, local oysters (of course!), and enjoy live music, and tons more delicious food.

Lastly, be sure to check out the Seaport Chowderfest in New Bedford! Usually taking place in early October, you’ll be able to sample tons of amazing chowders from all over the state, and you can vote on your favorites!

Here are some posts on the destinations mentioned above to help you plan:

• Boston In The Fall: The Best Things To Do!
• Best Things To Do In Newburyport, MA
• The Ultimate Salem, MA Day Trip Guide + Best Things To Do
• The Best Haunted Houses & Spooky Tours In Massachusetts
• Best Things To Do In Rockport, MA

Fun Fall Festivals In Massachusetts

31. berkshire botanical gardens harvest festival.

If you’re spending any time in The Berkshires this fall, you’ll want to plan a visit to the Berkshire Botanical Gardens Harvest Festival. Featuring over 100 artisan and food vendors, there’s so much fun to be had here. They go all out with fall-themed fun, and offer a haunted house, a hay maze, cider pressing, and and endless list of children’s entertainment like face painting and more.

During the event, you can also shop at their farmer’s market, pick up some plants, and enjoy the tag sale!

32. AppleFest At Cook’s Farm In Brimfield

This super fun family festival in Brimfield takes a perfect day of apple picking up a notch. In addition to PYO apples during the festival, you can also enjoy free wagon rides, pumpkin painting, live music, great food, and lots of activities for the kids.

This festival typically takes place at the end of September each year, and they do a great job advertising the dates and activities on their Facebook page.

33. Johnny Appleseed Arts & Culture Festival In Leominster

As of writing this post, the Johnny Appleseed Arts & Cultural Festivals has been a Leominster tradition for 30 years! This festival is completely free, and there are over 200 vendors to enjoy. They also claim to have the “world’s best apple crisp.” Not sure if you agree? Guess you’ll have to check it out for yourself to find out!

You’ll also find lots of activities for the kids at this event, and live music to enjoy while you dig into all the amazing food available.

34. Oktoberfest In Douglas

This fall street fair is one of the best in the state to check out, and many of the proceeds from the event go to local charities, so you can feel extra good about participating.

Vendors line the downtown streets with delicious food, unique crafts, and fun games. Kids will love the giant slide and obstacle course, and adults will have a blast in the prize cash cube. And of course, you can expect fan favorites like live music, and a cool atmosphere.

35. Thanksgiving In Plymouth

Last but not least, a great way to celebrate the end of the fall season is by visiting Plymouth for all their fun Thanksgiving festivities. As the site of the original Thanksgiving feast, the town goes all out throughout the month of November to celebrate the holiday.

There’s a parade the Saturday before Thanksgiving, special concerts, a waterfront festival, harvest market, and of course, an authentic Thanksgiving dinner held at the Plimoth Patuxet Museum. This special dining event serves a full Thanksgiving dinner, and includes actors portraying Pilgrims, so this is the ultimate way to experience the holiday.

Psst! I have an entire post on things to do that make Plymouth, MA worth visiting , if you’d like more ideas for your visit 😉

Best Places To Stay In Massachusetts In The Fall Season

Planning a fall getaway in Massachusetts and not sure where to stay? Here are my suggestions:

Boston : A great home base, especially if you’ve never been. It’s easy to take day trips from Boston to places like Salem, Newburyport and Ipswich, and it has the biggest International airport for the cheapest flight options.

Where To Stay In Boston : 🍁 Boston Harbor Hotel : Perfect, 5-star hotel on the waterfront. 🍁 The Revere Boston Common : Amazing location walkable to most of the top foliage sites in the city.

The Berkshires : Obviously, this is an amazing region to stay in the fall season in Massachusetts! And there are so many wonderful towns to pick from, so you can really tailor it to your preferences. I personally love Williamstown, Stockbridge and Lenox. You can also easily take day trips to places like Deerfield and Sturbridge from The Berkshires.

Where To Stay In The Berkshires : 🍁 The Williams Inn in Williamstown : Incredible inn with cozy, but modern rooms, and an upscale feel. 🍁 The Red Lion Inn in Stockbridge : Historic inn with cozy rooms and a great location on Main Street. 🍁 The Brook Farm Inn in Lenox : Charming inn with a traditional New England style and a great location.

Newburyport : If you’re looking to explore Boston & Salem on your fall trip, but want to stay in a place that’s less crowded and more like a small town, Newburyport is perfect. As mentioned, it’s a short drive from Salem for an easy day trip, and you can easily explore Ipswich, and Cider Hill Farm from here. And since you’re on the North Shore, you can make this a fall/coastal getaway by also seeing Rockport and more towns along the coast.

Since Newburyport is almost to the New Hampshire border, it will be easy to take some day trip there as well, including the charming city of Portsmouth!

Where To Stay In Newburyport : 🍁 Compass Rose Inn : A very cozy, traditional New England style inn where every room in a suite, and you always get an incredible breakfast each morning. 🍁 Essex Street Inn : A more budget-friendly option that’s still an awesome location, and very quaint and cozy!

You may also find these posts helpful:

• The PERFECT New England Fall Road Trip Itinerary
• Fall In New England: The Absolute Best Things To Do & See!
• Things To Do On Cape Cod In The Fall
• Is New England In November Worth Visiting?
• Thanksgiving In New England: Cozy Getaway Ideas & Things To Do!

That’s A Wrap On Celebrating Fall In Massachusetts

And there you have it! All my tips and suggestions on the best ways to enjoy fall in Massachusetts. In fact, with so many fun and festive things to do, it’ll be hard to squeeze it all in before the snow begins to fall. But one thing’s for sure – every moment of autumn in the Bay State is simply glorious.

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Tourist places in Massachusetts

Here are the top 28 places to visit in massachusetts in 2024:.

1 out of 28 Places to visit in Massachusetts 216 Tourist attractions

Boston is the largest city in Massachusetts, the testifier of the American Revolution and an international hub for education. Boston takes pride in its rich history and is counted as one of the oldest cities in America. Popularly known as "Beantown", the name that's originated from Boston baked...

Best Time: April to May, October to November

2 out of 28 Places to visit in Massachusetts

Located in the gorgeous, green Berkshire County, Lenox is a beautiful small town. It is a famous retreat during the summers usually for hiking, orchestra concerts, visiting mansions previously occupied by famous people. It is also known for housing Shakespeare & Company, Tanglewood and others. T...

Best Time: September to November

3. Provincetown

3 out of 28 Places to visit in Massachusetts

Located at the tip of Cape Cod in Barnstable County, Provincetown is a small town famous for its beaches, harbour towns, artists, tourist industry and is a coastal resort destination during the summers. Provincetown is not only one of the oldest but also one of the highly developed towns in the...

Best Time: May to September

4. Berkshires

4 out of 28 Places to visit in Massachusetts

Berkshires is a famous highland region, mostly known for the Green Mountains that extend into Massachusetts. It’s a year-round vacation destination because of the famous hiking trails, waterfalls (Berkshires houses on the oldest and tallest waterfalls in Massachusetts), museums, orchestra concerts a...

Best Time: June to August

5. Brookline

5 out of 28 Places to visit in Massachusetts

Brookline is a city in Norfolk County, Massachusetts that boasts a rich heritage. Being the birthplace of John F. Kennedy and hence draws many visitors year-round and the site is also listed in the National Register of Historic Places. A town that is best explored on foot, it has various libraries, ...

Best Time: Mid-august to Mid-october

6. Cambridge

6 out of 28 Places to visit in Massachusetts

Named after the renowned University of Cambridge in England, Cambridge is a part of Boston and is situated in Middlesex County, Massachusetts. The city is known to house the famous universities of the United States, Harvard University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), making it th...

Best Time: May to October

7 out of 28 Places to visit in Massachusetts

Chelsea is one of the densely populated cities in Massachusetts, US. It lies on the Mystic River and is mainly an industrial city. The high number of working-class living here and the diverse population has made it an architectural wonder. Due to its vast industrial history, landmarks like the polic...

Best Time: June to September

8 out of 28 Places to visit in Massachusetts

Concord is a town of historical significance located in Middlesex County, Massachusetts. A must-visit place for history enthusiasts, the Battle of Lexington and Concord took place here. The battle laid the base for the American Revolution, and the site is currently located at the Minute Man National...

9 out of 28 Places to visit in Massachusetts

Dedham is a town that radiates an old-world charm, mainly as European colonists established it in 1635. Located in the Norfolk County of Massachusetts, it has a dense suburban feel and offers a cozy vibe with the cafés, restaurants, and parks lining the town. One can visit the Dedham Historical Soci...

10. Everett

10 out of 28 Places to visit in Massachusetts

Everett is located in Middlesex County, Massachusetts, and was the last one to have a bicameral legislature in the US. The city has a rich modern culture, and the famous casino Encore leads that scene. The city has witnessed some favorite movies being filmed, including Gone Baby Gone – a 2007 film s...

Best tourist destinations & places in Massachusetts

11. gloucester.

11 out of 28 Places to visit in Massachusetts

Gloucester is located on the Cape of Ann and boasts of a rich 400-year old history. This city is famous for the fishing industry and also serves as the nation's oldest seaport. The seaside of Gloucester makes a perfect place for family outings and relishing the fresh seafood. It is not only the beac...

12 out of 28 Places to visit in Massachusetts

Groton is a quaint town with an exciting history and is located in Middlesex County, Massachusetts. The city provides a rural feel and has various trails and hikes spread across its length. There are over 100 trails to explore for hunting, camping, biking, or hiking. Around 30 percent of the town is...

13. Cape Cod

13 out of 28 Places to visit in Massachusetts

Cape Cod is  200 miles away or about 4 and a half hours away  to the south of New York City and one of the most popular weekend spots around the city. Weekends are a festival in Cape Cod, with bands, music and dances along the streets here. Apart from them, there are cruises to the ocean, ...

Best Time: June - September

14. Lexington

14 out of 28 Places to visit in Massachusetts

Lexington is located in the Middlesex County of Massachusetts and was previously a part of Cambridge, then called Cambridge farms. It is known for its historical significance as the Battle of Lexington, considered by many the first of the American Revolutionary War, was fought here. The site is a to...

15 out of 28 Places to visit in Massachusetts

The birth city of previous U.S. President George H.W. Bush, Milton is one of the best places to live in the U.S. It is an affluent suburb with many young professionals and housing some of the highly acclaimed public schools. Located in the Norfolk County, Massachusetts, Milton has witnessed the rise...

16. Nantucket

16 out of 28 Places to visit in Massachusetts

Located to the south of Cape Cod, Nantucket is a small touristy island and a part of Massachusetts. The island is accessible through a ferry boat or via an aeroplane and has some chic boutique hotels and cafés to cater the visitors. This town was a whaling hub in the 19th century, and the scene is s...

Best Time: March to October

17. Newburyport

17 out of 28 Places to visit in Massachusetts

Newburyport is a beautiful historic seaport located in Essex County, Massachusetts. This coastal city emits old-world charm through its brick buildings and also has a part of Plum Island. The downtown is reminiscent of the historic architecture and gives life to local business and some great eating ...

18. Plymouth

18 out of 28 Places to visit in Massachusetts

Plymouth is a coastal town located in Plymouth County, Massachusetts. It is famous all over the world and especially in the US as ‘America’s Hometown’ for it was here that New England was first established in 1620 by the Mayflower Pilgrims. Plymouth has many places of historical significance includi...

Best Time: June to October

19 out of 28 Places to visit in Massachusetts

Quincy is the largest city in the Norfolk County of Massachusetts. This city is known for being the birthplace of the United States’ Presidents John Adams, his son John Quincy Adams, and John Hancock. The town is pretty popular with the Asian community and has the highest Asian population in Massach...

20. Needham

20 out of 28 Places to visit in Massachusetts

Needham is one of the most famous towns in the U.S. that people like to live in. Located in the Norfolk County of Massachusetts, it boasts of a very affluent neighborhood. The public schools are considered one of the best in the region and all of this can be attributed to the high percentage of whit...

Best Tourist Attractions in Massachusetts

Freedom Trail Boston

Museums in Boston

Fenway Park

Castle Island

USS Constitution

Faneuil Hall

21 out of 28 Places to visit in Massachusetts

Newton is situated in the Middlesex County of Massachusetts and is a suburban area near Boston. It comprises of 13 villages and is surrounded by seven hills on the sides. It is this unique geographic alignment that it boasts of some of the most noteworthy parks, like the Norumbega Park near Charles ...

Best Time: November to February

22. Northampton

22 out of 28 Places to visit in Massachusetts

Northampton is located in Hampshire County, Massachusetts, and is a trendy city all over the U.S. Located to the west of the Connecticut River; the town is full of color and quiet celebrates it by welcoming people of diverse ethnicity with open arms. It has been tagged as the most liberal city in Am...

23 out of 28 Places to visit in Massachusetts

Located in Suffolk County of Massachusetts, Revere was previously known as North Chelsea and was later renamed after Paul Revere, the American Revolutionary War patriot. The city has played a crucial role in the war and the remains of old times can be seen around, well-preserved. The city is also kn...

Best Time: late june-mid-september

24. Rockport

24 out of 28 Places to visit in Massachusetts

Rockport is situated at the tip of the Cape Ann peninsula, making it a serene coastal town. The town boasts of miles of calm and pristine beaches and fishermen's shacks that have now become tourists’ hotspots. Then there is the Thacher’s Island which is just off the Rockport coast and has twin light...

25 out of 28 Places to visit in Massachusetts 10 Tourist attractions

Located at the Naumkeag River, Salem is a coastal city in Essex County of Massachusetts. This city brings along a very mystical history as it is here that the infamous Salem Witch Trials were conducted in 1692. The incident is so deeply etched in the history of the city that the Witch logos can be s...

Best Time: September to October

26. Somerville

26 out of 28 Places to visit in Massachusetts

Situated on the west bank of Mystic River, Somerville is a suburb in Middlesex County, Massachusetts. It is one of the most densely populated cities in New England and has a plethora of restaurants, shopping centers, and hangout places to hop around. Somerville originally became famous as the birthp...

27. Watertown

27 out of 28 Places to visit in Massachusetts

One of the earliest settlements in the Massachusetts Bay Colony, Watertown is situated in the Middlesex County of Massachusetts. It is a town that offers both urban and suburban mix feeling, and it can be experienced first hand at the town center, Watertown Square. Charles River mainly borders it an...

Best Time: June, August, September

28. Winthrop

28 out of 28 Places to visit in Massachusetts

Named after John Winthrop, the second governor of Massachusetts Bay Colony, Winthrop is situated in Suffolk County, Massachusetts. Located on a peninsula, it is a beautiful city that embraces the Atlantic Ocean to the east and provides a majestic skyline view of Boston to its west. One of the oldest...

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Here Are The 15 Most Incredible Natural Wonders In Massachusetts

Massachusetts native. Freelance writer and strawberry eater.

More by this Author

Massachusetts is full of incredibly beautiful natural spots, but some are a clear cut above the rest. Check out these gorgeous places across the state that will take your breath away.

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Have you visited these spots? Have suggestions for others? Let us know. If you want to explore more of this state’s natural beauty, check out these 12 trails that will guarantee you plenty of amazing views.

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10 Of The Most Beautiful Downtowns To Visit In Massachusetts

• Massachusetts offers charming New England towns with historic architecture, unique shops, and beautiful natural scenery, perfect for a charming getaway.
• From the Norman Rockwell Museum in Stockbridge to the art galleries in Rockport, these downtown areas offer visitors a glimpse into the region's rich history and culture.
• Whether it's strolling the brick sidewalks of Newburyport or enjoying the lively downtown of Provincetown, there are plenty of things to do and explore in these beautiful downtowns in Massachusetts.

Massachusetts offers lots of awesome things to do , one of which is visiting its many charming New England towns with quaint downtown areas. From bustling harbors to quiet village greens, the downtown areas offer visitors a glimpse into the region's rich history and culture.

Travelers will find historic architecture, unique shops and restaurants, and beautiful natural scenery, typically within proximity of some of the most scenic fall hikes in Massachusetts . Many of these classic New England main streets are best discovered on foot, allowing people to appreciate the sights and ambiance truly. If one is looking for a fun yet enchanting urban experience in this state, here are some of the most beautiful downtowns in Massachusetts to visit for a charming getaway.

RELATED: 10 Free Things To Do This Fall In Massachusetts

Stockbridge

The charming town of Stockbridge is home to one the most beautiful downtown areas in Massachusetts; it looks like a scene straight out of a Norman Rockwell painting. Travelers will find elegant historical buildings, art galleries, and boutique shops lining the main street.

Be sure to stop into the Normal Rockwell Museum to see the largest collection of the famous artist's works. Just steps from downtown, one can also visit the grounds of the Naumkeag mansion for gorgeous gardens.

• Top Attractions: Norman Rockwell Museum, Naumkeag Mansion
• Things to Do: Shopping, Art Gallery Visits

The seaside downtown of Rockport is one of the most beautiful places for a coastal road trip in New England . Visitors will find rocky harbors, historic sea captain's houses, and wonderful views of the Atlantic Ocean. Art galleries also abound, as Rockport has been an artists' colony since the 19th century.

Be sure to walk Bearskin Neck for shops, restaurants, and stunning harbor views. Visitors can also go for a sail on a schooner to fully experience the sights of the town from offshore.

• Top Attractions: Bearskin Neck, Rockport Art Galleries
• Things to Do : Schooner Tours, Shopping, Art Gallery Visits

Newburyport

On the banks of the Merrimack River, Newburyport's downtown exudes historic maritime charm. Stroll along the brick sidewalks past 18th and 19th-century buildings and visit the Custom House Maritime Museum. The downtown has an array of cafés, breweries, and shops to explore.

From downtown, visitors can also walk across a bridge to Maudslay State Park or take a short drive to Plum Island for beaches and wildlife refuge trails.

• Top Attractions: Custom House Maritime Museum
• Things to Do: Shopping, Café Hopping

Provincetown

Located at the tip of Cape Cod, Provincetown has a lively downtown full of art galleries, shops, restaurants, and nightlife. It's one of the most walkable cities on Cape Cod , perfect for an urban retreat.

Walk down Commercial Street to take in the sights, stopping to see historic maritime buildings like the Pilgrim Monument and the Rose Dorothea ship. Make sure to sample some seafood while in town, and go for a sunset stroll down the harbor front MacMillan Pier. Provincetown's downtown offers an eclectic, fun-loving, and quintessentially Cape Cod experience.

• Top Attractions: Pilgrim Monument, MacMillan Pier
• Things to Do : Whale Watching, Beach Time, Shopping

History lovers will adore downtown Concord, which was pivotal in the Revolutionary War and early American literature. Travelers can visit sites like the North Bridge, the Old Manse literary landmark, and Authors Ridge. The downtown area also has a wonderful selection of cafes, shops, and restaurants to choose from. Overall, there are lots of things to do in Concord that travelers of all ages will enjoy.

Be sure to browse the unique stores and eateries housed in historic buildings along Main Street. The scenic Concord River also offers opportunities for canoe and kayak rentals in town. There is something for every traveler in what is perhaps one of the best downtowns in Massachusetts.

• Top Attractions: The Old Manse, Authors Ridge
• Things to Do : Literary Site Tours, Shopping Tour

RELATED: 12 Things To Do In Worcester: Complete Guide To Exploring A Coastal Massachusetts Gem

The upscale downtown area of Wellesley offers visitors a sophisticated shopping and dining experience. The tree-lined main street has high-end boutiques, art galleries, gourmet food stores and top-rated restaurants. Local favorite eateries include Blue Ginger, a niche by local celebrity chef Ming Tsai.

Wellesley College's beautiful grounds are also open to visitors and just a short walk from downtown. Strolling the town green surrounded by historic buildings is a quintessential New England small-town experience.

• Top Attractions: Blue Ginger Restaurant, Wellesley College Campus
• Things to Do : High-end Shopping, Fine Dining

Northampton

Northampton has an energetic, artistic downtown full of unique shops, cafés and cultural attractions. Travelers will find well-preserved Victorian architecture on Main Street and funky new establishments. Art galleries, craft breweries, and bakeries abound for visitors to try.

On Saturdays from May to November, a bustling farmer's market is held on the town green. Music venues like the Iron Horse and the Parlor Room offer nightly live performances. The downtown area caters to foodies, artists, students, and families.

• Top Attractions: Main Street, Town Green Farmer's Market
• Things to Do : Café Hopping, Shopping, Farmers Market

Williamstown

Surrounded by the rolling Berkshire Mountains (which offer superb places to stay) , Williamstown is a lovely small town in New England downtown. The area has shops, restaurants, and historic architecture, oriented around the appealing Williams Green. Food options range from the upscale Mezze Bistro to the lively brewpub Tunnel City Coffee.

The world-class Clark Art Museum is just a short walk away, housing an impressive collection of paintings and special exhibits. Outdoor lovers can also easily access hiking trails in the nearby Mount Greylock range from downtown.

• Top Attractions: Clark Art Museum, Williams College Campus
• Things to Do: Art Museum Visit, Shopping, Dining

On the island of Martha's Vineyard, Oak Bluffs has a vibrant downtown and harbor area. Colorful gingerbread cottages surround Ocean Park, a green space in the center of town. Be sure to admire the decorative Carpenter Gothic architecture on display throughout downtown.

Visitors can also browse the downtown shops and art galleries, ride the Flying Horses historic carousel, and stroll out along the harborfront. At night, the downtown area comes alive with dining and entertainment options for travelers.

• Top Attractions: Flying Horses Carousel, Gingerbread Cottages
• Things to Do: Beach Time, Shopping, Harborfront Stroll

RELATED: Step Back In Time: These 10 Hotels Are the Oldest In America

Great Barrington

Great Barrington's small downtown offers a mix of cafes, shops, and cultural attractions. Stroll along Railroad Street to see historic buildings like the Triplex Cinema and the Mahaiwe Performing Arts Center. Quaint alleyways, galleries, chic restaurants, and antique shops make this downtown fun to explore.

Seasonal events like the Farmers Market and Third Thursday Street Festival add to the local flavor. The Housatonic River and Lake Mansfield are just a short walk from downtown for scenic strolls.

• Top Attractions : Mahaiwe Performing Arts Center, Housatonic River Walks
• Things to Do : Boutique Shopping, Farmers Market, Scenic Strolls

Best places to live in Massachusetts

An ideal town or neighborhood looks different for everyone.

Those who can't get enough of the outdoors may prioritize proximity to trails, lakes, and beaches, while parents are looking for places with top-ranked schools for their children. Culture lovers might want to live in a city with museums and art walks, whereas sports fans look for professional or college sports teams nearby.

Stacker compiled a list of the best places to live in Massachusetts using data from Niche . Niche ranks places to live based on a variety of factors including cost of living, schools, health care, recreation, and weather.

On the list, there's a robust mix of offerings from great schools and nightlife to high walkability and public parks. Some areas have enjoyed rapid growth thanks to new businesses moving to the area, while others offer glimpses into area history with well-preserved architecture and museums.

Keep reading to see if your hometown made the list.

CORRECTION: A previously published version of this piece, in some cases, incorrectly listed private schools as public schools.

#30. Bay Village, Massachusetts

- Overall Rank: 1,331 - Population: 1,251 - Median household income: $250,001 - Median home value: $1,205,400 (28% own) - Median rent: $2,068 (72% rent) - Top public schools: Boston Latin School (grade A+), Boston Latin Academy (grade A), O'Bryant School of Math & Science (grade A) - Top private schools: Commonwealth School (grade A+), Boston University Academy (grade A+), Milton Academy (grade A+)

#29. North End, Massachusetts

- Overall Rank: 1,290 - Population: 9,856 - Median household income: $119,930 - Median home value: $897,349 (23% own) - Median rent: $2,545 (77% rent) - Top public schools: Boston Latin School (grade A+), Gibbs School (grade A+), Boston Latin Academy (grade A) - Top private schools: Commonwealth School (grade A+), Boston University Academy (grade A+), Belmont Hill School (grade A+)

#28. Newton Centre, Massachusetts

- Overall Rank: 1,208 - Population: 6,170 - Median household income: $225,842 - Median home value: $1,480,949 (85% own) - Median rent: $2,815 (15% rent) - Top public schools: Newton North High School (grade A+), Newton South High School (grade A+), Ward Elementary School (grade A+) - Top private schools: Commonwealth School (grade A+), Noble and Greenough School (grade A+), Boston University Academy (grade A+)

#27. Back Bay, Massachusetts

- Overall Rank: 1,052 - Population: 18,364 - Median household income: $121,150 - Median home value: $1,571,945 (31% own) - Median rent: $2,682 (69% rent) - Top public schools: Boston Latin School (grade A+), Gibbs School (grade A+), Boston Latin Academy (grade A) - Top private schools: Commonwealth School (grade A+), Boston University Academy (grade A+), Milton Academy (grade A+)

#26. Northborough, Massachusetts

- Overall Rank: 865 - Population: 15,647 - Median household income: $160,801 - Median home value: $548,400 (85% own) - Median rent: $1,920 (15% rent) - Top public schools: MA Academy for Math & Science School (grade A+), Algonquin Regional High School (grade A+), Advanced Math & Science Academy Charter School (grade A) - Top private schools: St. Mark's School (grade A+), Bancroft School (grade A+), Worcester Academy (grade A+)

#25. Newton Upper Falls, Massachusetts

- Overall Rank: 789 - Population: 5,239 - Median household income: $173,290 - Median home value: $1,032,936 (71% own) - Median rent: $2,127 (29% rent) - Top public schools: Newton North High School (grade A+), Newton South High School (grade A+), Wellesley Senior High School (grade A+) - Top private schools: Commonwealth School (grade A+), Noble and Greenough School (grade A+), Boston University Academy (grade A+)

#24. Thompsonville, Massachusetts

- Overall Rank: 776 - Population: 4,950 - Median household income: $171,464 - Median home value: $1,003,710 (72% own) - Median rent: $2,703 (28% rent) - Top public schools: Newton South High School (grade A+), Heath School (grade A+), Charles E. Brown Middle School (grade A+) - Top private schools: Commonwealth School (grade A+), Noble and Greenough School (grade A+), Boston University Academy (grade A+)

#23. Cambridge Highlands, Massachusetts

- Overall Rank: 765 - Population: 3,952 - Median household income: $111,920 - Median home value: $930,192 (46% own) - Median rent: $2,702 (54% rent) - Top public schools: Belmont High School (grade A+), Cambridge Rindge & Latin School (grade A+), Mary Lee Burbank School (grade A+) - Top private schools: Commonwealth School (grade A+), Boston University Academy (grade A+), Concord Academy (grade A+)

#22. Newton Highlands, Massachusetts

- Overall Rank: 745 - Population: 9,852 - Median household income: $168,131 - Median home value: $1,124,182 (70% own) - Median rent: $2,651 (30% rent) - Top public schools: Newton South High School (grade A+), Needham High School (grade A+), Mason Rice Elementary School (grade A+) - Top private schools: Commonwealth School (grade A+), Noble and Greenough School (grade A+), Boston University Academy (grade A+)

#21. Strawberry Hill, Massachusetts

- Overall Rank: 640 - Population: 4,899 - Median household income: $141,481 - Median home value: $798,713 (42% own) - Median rent: $2,488 (58% rent) - Top public schools: Belmont High School (grade A+), Cambridge Rindge & Latin School (grade A+), Mary Lee Burbank School (grade A+) - Top private schools: Commonwealth School (grade A+), Boston University Academy (grade A+), Belmont Hill School (grade A+)

#20. Nonantum, Massachusetts

- Overall Rank: 638 - Population: 15,783 - Median household income: $133,659 - Median home value: $841,824 (52% own) - Median rent: $1,998 (48% rent) - Top public schools: Newton North High School (grade A+), F.A. Day Middle School (grade A+), Gibbs School (grade A+) - Top private schools: Commonwealth School (grade A+), Noble and Greenough School (grade A+), Boston University Academy (grade A+)

#19. Newton Corner, Massachusetts

- Overall Rank: 633 - Population: 5,004 - Median household income: $195,541 - Median home value: $1,279,695 (72% own) - Median rent: $2,596 (28% rent) - Top public schools: Boston Latin School (grade A+), Newton North High School (grade A+), Ward Elementary School (grade A+) - Top private schools: Commonwealth School (grade A+), Noble and Greenough School (grade A+), Boston University Academy (grade A+)

#18. Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts

- Overall Rank: 563 - Population: 9,737 - Median household income: $231,541 - Median home value: $1,756,840 (72% own) - Median rent: $2,460 (28% rent) - Top public schools: Boston Latin School (grade A+), Newton North High School (grade A+), Newton South High School (grade A+) - Top private schools: Commonwealth School (grade A+), Noble and Greenough School (grade A+), Boston University Academy (grade A+)

#17. Auburndale, Massachusetts

- Overall Rank: 543 - Population: 9,990 - Median household income: $157,393 - Median home value: $1,063,656 (60% own) - Median rent: $2,218 (40% rent) - Top public schools: Newton North High School (grade A+), Newton South High School (grade A+), F.A. Day Middle School (grade A+) - Top private schools: Commonwealth School (grade A+), Noble and Greenough School (grade A+), St. Mark's School (grade A+)

#16. Oak Hill Park, Massachusetts

- Overall Rank: 529 - Population: 1,126 - Median household income: $206,458 - Median home value: $810,000 (100% own) - Median rent: $294 (% rent) - Top public schools: Boston Latin School (grade A+), Newton South High School (grade A+), Needham High School (grade A+) - Top private schools: Noble and Greenough School (grade A+), Boston University Academy (grade A+), The Roxbury Latin School (grade A+)

#15. West Cambridge, Massachusetts

- Overall Rank: 523 - Population: 9,351 - Median household income: $157,278 - Median home value: $1,551,724 (63% own) - Median rent: $2,745 (37% rent) - Top public schools: Boston Latin School (grade A+), Cambridge Rindge & Latin School (grade A+), Gibbs School (grade A+) - Top private schools: Commonwealth School (grade A+), Boston University Academy (grade A+), Concord Academy (grade A+)

#14. North Cambridge, Massachusetts

- Overall Rank: 489 - Population: 21,631 - Median household income: $142,693 - Median home value: $1,021,005 (33% own) - Median rent: $2,539 (67% rent) - Top public schools: Cambridge Rindge & Latin School (grade A+), Gibbs School (grade A+), John M. Tobin Montessori School (grade A) - Top private schools: Commonwealth School (grade A+), Boston University Academy (grade A+), Concord Academy (grade A+)

#13. West Newton, Massachusetts

- Overall Rank: 451 - Population: 17,149 - Median household income: $173,322 - Median home value: $1,247,205 (57% own) - Median rent: $2,335 (43% rent) - Top public schools: Newton North High School (grade A+), Newton South High School (grade A+), F.A. Day Middle School (grade A+) - Top private schools: Commonwealth School (grade A+), Noble and Greenough School (grade A+), Boston University Academy (grade A+)

#12. Westborough, Massachusetts

- Overall Rank: 438 - Population: 21,360 - Median household income: $133,145 - Median home value: $601,900 (61% own) - Median rent: $1,937 (39% rent) - Top public schools: MA Academy for Math & Science School (grade A+), Westborough High School (grade A+), J. Harding Armstrong Elementary School (grade A+) - Top private schools: St. Mark's School (grade A+), The Rivers School (grade A+), Bancroft School (grade A+)

#11. Williamstown, Massachusetts

- Overall Rank: 399 - Population: 7,630 - Median household income: $102,545 - Median home value: $419,800 (75% own) - Median rent: $1,217 (25% rent) - Top public schools: Williamstown Elementary School (grade A), Mt. Greylock Regional High School (grade A minus), Berkshire Arts & Technology Charter Public School (grade B minus) - Top private schools: Buxton School (grade A+), Darrow School (grade A+), Hoosac School (grade A+)

#10. Shrewsbury, Massachusetts

- Overall Rank: 373 - Population: 38,734 - Median household income: $127,088 - Median home value: $512,000 (74% own) - Median rent: $1,841 (26% rent) - Top public schools: MA Academy for Math & Science School (grade A+), Spring Street Elementary School (grade A+), Shrewsbury Senior High School (grade A+) - Top private schools: St. Mark's School (grade A+), Bancroft School (grade A+), Worcester Academy (grade A+)

#9. Newtonville, Massachusetts

- Overall Rank: 347 - Population: 5,342 - Median household income: $167,202 - Median home value: $1,095,719 (68% own) - Median rent: $2,567 (32% rent) - Top public schools: Newton North High School (grade A+), Newton South High School (grade A+), Mason Rice Elementary School (grade A+) - Top private schools: Commonwealth School (grade A+), Noble and Greenough School (grade A+), Boston University Academy (grade A+)

#8. The Port, Massachusetts

- Overall Rank: 241 - Population: 6,970 - Median household income: $100,043 - Median home value: $874,426 (25% own) - Median rent: $2,220 (75% rent) - Top public schools: Cambridge Rindge & Latin School (grade A+), Gibbs School (grade A+), John M. Tobin Montessori School (grade A) - Top private schools: Commonwealth School (grade A+), Boston University Academy (grade A+), Belmont Hill School (grade A+)

#7. Peabody, Massachusetts

- Overall Rank: 199 - Population: 13,088 - Median household income: $125,225 - Median home value: $1,048,014 (42% own) - Median rent: $2,585 (58% rent) - Top public schools: Cambridge Rindge & Latin School (grade A+), Gibbs School (grade A+), John M. Tobin Montessori School (grade A) - Top private schools: Commonwealth School (grade A+), Boston University Academy (grade A+), Concord Academy (grade A+)

#6. Riverside, Massachusetts

- Overall Rank: 192 - Population: 11,930 - Median household income: $96,594 - Median home value: $1,196,843 (23% own) - Median rent: $2,344 (77% rent) - Top public schools: Boston Latin School (grade A+), Cambridge Rindge & Latin School (grade A+), Gibbs School (grade A+) - Top private schools: Commonwealth School (grade A+), Boston University Academy (grade A+), Belmont Hill School (grade A+)

#5. Agassiz, Massachusetts

- Overall Rank: 182 - Population: 8,893 - Median household income: $146,637 - Median home value: $1,398,615 (32% own) - Median rent: $2,652 (68% rent) - Top public schools: Cambridge Rindge & Latin School (grade A+), Gibbs School (grade A+), John M. Tobin Montessori School (grade A) - Top private schools: Commonwealth School (grade A+), Boston University Academy (grade A+), Belmont Hill School (grade A+)

#4. Wellington-Harrington, Massachusetts

- Overall Rank: 140 - Population: 7,745 - Median household income: $104,232 - Median home value: $947,566 (29% own) - Median rent: $2,288 (71% rent) - Top public schools: Cambridge Rindge & Latin School (grade A+), Gibbs School (grade A+), John M. Tobin Montessori School (grade A) - Top private schools: Commonwealth School (grade A+), Boston University Academy (grade A+), Belmont Hill School (grade A+)

#3. East Cambridge, Massachusetts

- Overall Rank: 83 - Population: 13,279 - Median household income: $119,408 - Median home value: $927,649 (28% own) - Median rent: $2,863 (72% rent) - Top public schools: Boston Latin School (grade A+), Cambridge Rindge & Latin School (grade A+), Gibbs School (grade A+) - Top private schools: Commonwealth School (grade A+), Boston University Academy (grade A+), Belmont Hill School (grade A+)

#2. Mid-Cambridge, Massachusetts

- Overall Rank: 70 - Population: 15,300 - Median household income: $120,945 - Median home value: $1,085,182 (33% own) - Median rent: $2,555 (67% rent) - Top public schools: Cambridge Rindge & Latin School (grade A+), Gibbs School (grade A+), John M. Tobin Montessori School (grade A) - Top private schools: Commonwealth School (grade A+), Boston University Academy (grade A+), Belmont Hill School (grade A+)

#1. Cambridgeport, Massachusetts

- Overall Rank: 30 - Population: 13,671 - Median household income: $126,707 - Median home value: $997,151 (33% own) - Median rent: $2,433 (67% rent) - Top public schools: Cambridge Rindge & Latin School (grade A+), Gibbs School (grade A+), John M. Tobin Montessori School (grade A) - Top private schools: Commonwealth School (grade A+), Boston University Academy (grade A+), Belmont Hill School (grade A+)

This story features data reporting and writing by Elena Cox and is part of a series utilizing data automation across 42 states.

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5 fun things to do in massachusetts weekend of june 21 to june 23.

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Looking for something fun to do in Massachusetts? Here are five suggestions:

• Grecian Festival
• Paint the Square PINK! Block Party
• North Shore Juneteenth
• Boston Pizza Festival
• Patriot Place Pickleball Classic

And a bonus suggestion: New England Film Orchestra

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Boston Celtics Victory Parade and Traffic Advisory

The City of Boston will host a duck boat parade on Friday, June 21, 2024, to celebrate the Celtics winning their 18th NBA Championship.

• Last updated: June 21, 2024

Parade Route and Map

The parade will begin at 11 a.m. on Causeway Street and then follow Staniford Street to Cambridge Street to Tremont Street to Boylston Street, before ending near the Hynes Convention Center.

Download the map (pdf)

Public Transportation

Those attending the parade are strongly encouraged to use public transportation. Riders can find more information on MBTA service, parking, paying fares, and more during Friday’s Celtics Championship Parade on the MBTA's website . 

The MBTA will have increased subway service and modified Commuter Rail schedules with additional train times before and after the parade. Riders are strongly encouraged to purchase roundtrip fares in advance.

Accessibility

The parade route will include two designated accessible viewing areas - on City Hall Plaza on the Cambridge Street side and outside of the Boston Public Library on Boylston Street.  There is no reserved seating at these viewing areas. 

Bluebikes, the regional bike share service, is another great way to get around the City. Information on passes and station locations may be found on the Bluebikes website .

Parking Restrictions (No Parking)

• Causeway Street , Both sides from North Washington Street to Merrimac Street
• Staniford Street , Both sides from Causeway Street to Cambridge Street
• Cambridge Street , Both sides from Staniford Street to Tremont Street
• Tremont Street , Both sides from Cambridge Street to Boylston Street
• Boylston Street , Both sides from Washington Street to Massachusetts Avenue
• Charles Street South , Both sides from Park Plaza to Boylston Street
• Charles Street , Both sides from Beacon Street to Boylston Street
• Arlington Street , Both sides from Newbury street to Saint James Avenue
• Berkeley Street , Both sides from Saint James Avenue to Newbury Street
• Clarendon Street , Both sides from Saint James Avenue to Newbury Street
• Dartmouth Street , Both sides from Newbury Street to Saint James Avenue
• Exeter Street , Both sides from Newbury Street to Blagden Street
• Fairfield Street , Both sides from Boylston Street to Newbury Street
• Gloucester Street , Both sides from Boylston Street to Newbury Street
• Hereford Street , Both sides from Boylston Street to Newbury Street
• Cambria Street , Both sides, from Boylston Street to end at Hynes Center garage 
• Scotia Street , Both sides, from Saint Cecilia Street to Dalton Street 
• Saint Cecilia Street , Both sides, from Belvidere Street to Boylston Street
• Dalton Street , Both sides, from Belvidere Street to Boylston Street
• Providence Street , Both sides, from Arlington Street to Berkeley Street
• West Street , Both sides, from Washington Street to Tremont Street
• Temple Place , Both sides, from Washington Street to Tremont Street
• Bromfield Street , Both sides, from Washington Street to Tremont Street
• Park Street , Both sides, from Tremont Street to Beacon Street
• Beacon Street , Both sides, from Somerset Street to Tremont Street
• School Street , Both sides, from Tremont Street to Province Street
• Somerset Street , Both sides, from Ashburton Place to Cambridge Street
• New Chardon Street , Both sides, from Cambridge Street to Merrimac Street (Congress Street)
• Bowdoin Street , Both sides, from Dern Street to Cambridge Street
• New Sudbury Street , Both sides, from Cambridge Street to Hawkins Street
• Congress Street , Both sides, from New Sudbury Street to State Street
• State Street , Both sides, from Congress Street to Court Street
• Court Street , Both sides, from Washington Street to Cambridge Street
• New Chardon Street , Both sides, from Cambridge Street to Merrimac Street (Congress Street) 
• Staniford Street , Both sides, from Cambridge Street to Merrimac Street 
• Lomasney Way , Both sides, from Causeway Street to Nashua Street 
• Lancaster Street , Both sides, from Causeway Street to Merrimac Street 
• Portland Street , Both sides, from Causeway Street to Valenti Way 
• Friend Street , Both sides, from Causeway Street to Valenti Way 
• Canal Street , Both sides, from Causeway Street to Valenti Way 
• Haverhill Street , Both sides, from Causeway Street to Valenti Way 
• Beverly Street , Both sides, from Causeway Street to Valenti Way 
• Medford Street , Both sides, from Causeway Street to North Washington Street 
• Plympton Street , Both sides, from Albany Street to Harrison Avenue 
• East Dedham Street , Both sides, from Harrison Avenue to Albany Street 

Public Safety

Please note:.

• Underage and public drinking of alcohol will not be tolerated.
• Boston Police and Boston EMS will have a large presence along the parade route.
• The Office of Emergency Management will also have misting tents out to provide cooling relief at City Hall Plaza and the Boston Common, along with cooling towels.
• Residents are encouraged to sign up for AlertBoston emergency notifications  for the latest updates.

Be aware of the heat

While the  previously declared heat emergency  will have ended by Friday, first responders will be ready to help those feeling adverse effects from the heat. Please remember to stay hydrated and use sunscreen.

Read the public safety update

RoadTrip Dispensary

Hours updated 3 weeks ago

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191 Lafayette Rd

Salisbury, MA 01952

About the Business

RoadTrip Dispensary caters to cannabis connoisseurs in Salisbury, Amesbury, and Newburyport. They offer a curated selection of cannabis products for those seeking a recreational marijuana experience. …

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Every so often you run into a business that just feels right. The people are energetic, enthusiastic and knowledgeable. The products are top quality. The prices are reasonable. Easy in and out. You can just tell this place has that right mix. I don't really feel like this when visiting other dispensaries. It's not just me - did you notice Root & Bloom won Best Cannabis Company to work for in all of New England at NECANN? This just doesn't randomly happen without good reason... This place just opened but you can tell it's set up for service to the people. I've been watching from afar: It looks like the cultivation team next door is crafting the best plant medicine possible using clean and honest methods, and now it's available fresh and direct from the farm next door! Wow. It's a bit of a drive for me but when I feel the itch, I know where to get the scratch! Good luck you guys - I'll be back to visit soon!

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